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Port-Bouët occupies a distinctive coastal position within Abidjan, Ivory Coast's economic capital, situated on the southeastern Atlantic shoreline at approximately 5.2568°N, -3.9630°W. This urban district lies on flat coastal plains with minimal elevation variation, typically under 10 meters above sea level, directly bordering the Ébrié Lagoon to the north and the Gulf of Guinea to the south. Its geography creates a unique air quality dynamic: the lagoon acts as a partial barrier to inland air circulation, while ocean breezes from the south can disperse pollutants but also bring marine aerosols. Port-Bouët forms part of Abidjan's industrial belt, hosting the Vridi Canal and Port of Abidjan—West Africa's second-largest container port—along with associated industries, refineries, and logistics hubs that generate significant particulate matter and NOx emissions. The urban-rural gradient shows dense settlement transitioning eastward toward more agricultural zones, though the district itself remains predominantly built-up. Surrounding landscapes include coastal mangroves and wetlands that can trap pollutants during stagnant conditions. Proximity to both industrial activity and the ocean creates complex pollution patterns, where sea breezes alternately cleanse or recirculate emissions depending on wind patterns and thermal inversions that frequently develop over the lagoon's warmer waters.

Port-Bouët experiences two main seasons that shape its air quality narrative, characteristic of southern Ivory Coast's tropical climate. During the long dry season from November to March, northeasterly Harmattan winds transport Saharan dust across West Africa, significantly increasing particulate levels—typically peaking in December and January. These months see reduced rainfall and occasional temperature inversions, especially overnight, trapping vehicle emissions from Abidjan's congested transport corridors and industrial pollutants near ground level. Sensitive groups should limit outdoor exertion during late mornings when pollution often concentrates. The rainy season from April to October brings relief through frequent downpours that wash pollutants from the air, with June through August generally offering the cleanest conditions. However, high humidity during this period can combine with emissions to form secondary pollutants. Southwest monsoon winds from May to October enhance dispersion over the coastal zone, though occasional stagnant periods before storms may temporarily elevate pollution. For optimal air quality, visitors and residents should favor outdoor activities during the mid-rainy season months of June-August, while asthma sufferers and those with respiratory conditions should take particular precautions during Harmattan-influenced dry months when dust and industrial emissions synergistically degrade air quality.