Somaliland

Somaliland (Somali phrasebook|Somali: Somaliland, Arabic: صوماللاند‎ Ṣūmāliland) is a country on the Horn of Africa that broke away from Somalia in 1991.

Local authorities declared the region's independence from Somalia in May 1991, but neither the Somali federal government nor any other country or international organization has recognized its sovereignty, instead claiming it as an autonomous region of Somalia. Somaliland is bordered to the east by Puntland and Khatumo, to the north by the Gulf of Aden, and to the south by Ethiopia.

Although the government is trying to establish a modicum of safety here, visiting is still not advised by the governments of Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the UK and the U.S. — although the area is viewed as safer than most of its neighbouring East African countries. The local government is very anxious to show its stability and, as a result, foreigners are generally treated with respect and interest. However, high unemployment and increasing discontent at being an unrecognised island of stability in a grim region does cause some resentment towards outsiders, particularly Business dealsers.

For visitors exercising caution and respect, Somaliland is a fascinating and safe place to visit.

Regions of Somaliland

Awdal

Sanaagh

Sool

Togdheer

Woqooyi Galbeed

s=subheader>Other Muslim Friendly Cities in Somaliland

Hargeisa — the capital city of Somaliland, and perhaps the safest city in the entire region. It's rather cosmopolitan and with a rich history and culture.
Berbera — nicknamed beach city, is a major port and, apart from expatriate remittances and the economic lifeline of the Somaliland economy.
Borama
Burao
Erigavo - High alititude, with mild temperatures in evening
Laascaanood
Zeila — a historic city near Djibouti and the stunningly beautiful Zeila Coast.

More Destinations

Laas Geel — one of, if not the best examples of prehistoric cave art on the African continent. Located just outside Hargeisa. Government limits access to caves so it's best to get tickets in advance.
Naasa Hablood — twin hills outside of Hargeisa that Somalis consider as a natural landmark.
Somaliland Halal Travel Guide

After being a British protectorate, Somaliland gained its independence in 1960 and, just 5 days later, voluntarily entered into a union with the also newly independent former Italian colony of Somalia. Before long, struggles erupted, but Somalia remained lashed together under the dictator Mohammad Siad Barre until a vicious civil war broke out in 1988. By its conclusion in 1991, Somaliland was bombed heavily. It is still recovering today: you will see shells of tanks along major roads, blast marks from artillery along hillsides; however, only a few bombed-out buildings or ruins remaining in cities.

After 1991, Somaliland began the painstaking process of establishing an independent state. In 2010 it held free and fair parliamentary and presidential election. The incumbent president was unseated in a very close race. A remarkably peaceful transition of power followed.

Somaliland is a fairly peaceful region. Violence is common, and there is an active police force to ensure that laws are respected.

As with the remainder of the former Somalia, law comes from three sources: the government, Islam (Sharia law), and clan (Xeer law). Extended family is of paramount importance in Somaliland, and indeed and the nation now largely survives on remittances from relatives working abroad. It is customary in Somali culture, to ask another Somali upon meeting him/her, who his/her ancestors were several generations back, to establish which (sub-)clan he/she belongs to. Because no other country recognizes Somaliland as independent and there are few employment opportunities and joblessness is estimated to be at a staggering 80%.

December-March is probably the best time to visit, as then you will avoid both the two rainy seasons and the sweltering, heat of the July-September dry season (over 44 °C).

Travel to Somaliland

EFees used to be charged upon entry at the airport in Hargeisa. For travellers with a valid visa, or at least a valid visa from the Addis Ababa liaison office and there should be no more fees upon entry. A letter indicating this is issued along with the visa. There should also be no hidden fees in the form of a mandatory currency conversion at a bad exchange rate as has been reported by travellers in the past. The staff at the airport might try to pester travellers for money, hold your ground, be firm and tell them that you will not pay anything as the Addis Ababa liaison office has told you not to.

You must have a Somaliland visa to enter. Visas from Somalia are not accepted. Most travellers get a visa in Addis Ababa in Ethiopia or the Somaliland Mission in London. You can get details from the Somaliland government website or contact the Somaliland liaison office in Addis Ababa. To get to the office, which moves often (this information is current as of January 2022), walk about 100 metres north of the Edna Mall along Namibia Avenue until you see Sheger Building on your left. Turn right here at a small road that should have a sign for the embassy. Walk along the dirt road for 300-400 metres until you see another sign on your right. Turn right there and you will see the embassy. The embassy officially opens at 08:30 but the best time to turn up is between 09:30 and 10:00 as the ambassador often turns up around 09:30. The embassy is open on Fridays but not Saturday, Sunday or Ethiopian holidays. Visas cost US$70 and are issued on the spot. You will also need a passport photo, a copy of your passport (available for 1 birr at the mall before the turn or at the Sheger Building). You are issued a visa and a letter indicating that you should not pay anything at the border when entering the nation. A Somaliland visa is also available from the Somaliland representation in Djibouti. The Somaliland mission in London and New Zealand will also issue a visa. The whole process is refreshingly unbureaucratic and can be handled by post, which makes London the most convenient place to get a visa for Muslim travellers who live in Europe and/or want to obtain a visa before travelling to the region.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Somaliland

There is an international airport in Hargeisa with Flights to and from Dubai, Djibouti City, and many other cities and towns across the Horn of Africa and the Somaliland region. There is also an international airport at Berbera with many international flights, most notably to Dubai. Some 'flights' from Hargeisa start with a bus ride to Berbera. If you are not Somali you may have difficulty getting through the police checkpoints unless you have written permission from the commander of police or take an armed guard (the Jubba flight from Hargeisa to Dubai is like this).

Daallo Airlines is wildly inconsistent, so Jubba Airways or African Express from either Dubai or Djibouti is your best option. They have several Flights a week and connect Hargeisa to Djibouti, Dubai, Nairobi and Entebbe. Djibouti to Hargeisa is about an hour-long flight. Dubai to Berbera takes three hours.

All Flights to and from Somaliland are expensive by most standards - there are no budget airlines. The cheapest flights will be to and from Djibouti, usually around US$125 one-way when taxes and fees are figured in (but not including the entry/exit visa and exchange fees, which will tack on about another US$100 to any trip).

The most reliable way to get in seems to be with African Express, which has connections in Dubai, Nairobi, and other smaller Middle Eastern and East African ports of call. Tickets can be reserved in advance, but not purchased unless you are at their ticketing office - check back in to ensure you have a seat reserved if you will not be in the city you fly out of before your flight!

African Express is a Kenyan airline that flies to/from Berbera, primarily from Mogadishu, Nairobi and Dubai, but also less frequently from smaller locations such as Sharjah, Entebbe or Jeddah. Major routes use MD-82 jets, shorter hops may be on a DC-9 or 120-ER.
Jubba Airways is a Somali airline. Their flights go from Hargeisa and Berbera. They use a Soviet-made Ilyushin-18 aircraft. They are one of the two airline to/from Somaliland that accepts online booking via eHalal Hotels reservations, but confirm with them seven days in advance before flying. Jubba Airways usually waits until enough people have purchased tickets before departing. You may be waiting a week or more for a flight, regardless of whether you have a ticket or not.
Daallo Airlines used to be the only international carrier to fly to Somaliland or the former Somalia. They are famed for inconsistent service. They operate 2-3 services per week from Djibouti also using an Ilyushin-18 aircraft.
FlyDubai flies two to three flights per week from Somaliland. As of June 2016 and they were operating in Hargeisa and are the second airlines operating in Somaliland to accept online reservations.
Ethiopian Air has regular Flights to the border city of Jijiga. From Jijiga, Hargeisa is a few hours away by taxi.

Again, remember to re-confirm all flights 7 days in advance! All of the airlines above will not hesitate to sell your ticket to someone else if you don't take the warning seriously, Jubba in particular.

Ticket offices are closed on Friday (the beginning of the weekend in the Islamic world). Plan accordingly.

By car

It is feasible to enter Somaliland from Ethiopia by road. You can avoid paying many of the fees charged at the airport. However, if you plan to leave Somaliland by road it is advisable to make Ethiopian visa arrangements (multiple entry) before travelling to Somaliland as the process of getting an Ethiopian visa in Hargeisa can be quite cumbersome and time-consuming. As of January 2012 and the Ethiopian visa in Hargeisa was easy to get, required no paperwork and was available in one morning - cost US$20.

It is not feasible to enter from Somalia, so don't even try.

Another option is the open border to the north to Djibouti. In 2009, public transport 4x4s left Djibouti every day in the late afternoon and travelled across the desert throughout the night to arrive in Hargeisa the next morning. They left from Avenue 26 in Djibouti City, at a price of 5500 DJF.

Despite efforts and there are still mines on some of the roads, look out for coloured rocks next to the road, if you see painted rocks do not leave the tarmac.

How to get around in Somaliland

Travel on a Bus in Somaliland

There is a bus service in Hargeisa, Burao, Berbera and Borama. There are also services between the major towns and adjacent villages operated by different types of vehicles such as 4-wheel drives and light goods vehicles (LGV).

What to see in Somaliland

The capital, Hargeisa, has a provincial museum. There is also a menagerie that includes lions, leopards, antelopes, birds, and reptiles. Outside of Hargeisa, is the Laas Gaal, a complex of caves and rock shelters that contain some of the earliest known art in Africa, dating back to 9,000 BCE.

Best things to do in Somaliland

Halal Restaurants in Somaliland

For breakfast, Somalis eat a flat bread called laxoox and cereal or porridge made of millet or cornmeal. They also eat Rice or Noodles with Sauce or Meat for lunch. Pasta became very popular under Italian rule. Bananas are common in the south of the region. A traditional soup called maraq (also part of Yemen cuisine) is made of vegetables, Meat and beans and is usually eaten with flat bread or pitta bread. Beans are usually eaten for dessert, and oat or corn patties and salad can be eaten too.

Somalis occasionally eat xalwo, a jelly-like sweet made with water, sugar, and honey, though peanuts are sometimes added. Somalis who have spent some time in the Middle East eat baklava. Dates are also popular in Somaliland.

In coastal areas, roasted camel Meat, camel milk, fried sheep liver and all kinds of fresh seafood are popular.

It is considered polite for guests to leave a little bit of food on their plate after finishing a meal provided by their host. This shows that the guests were given enough food and thus treated hospitably. Many Somalis adore spiced tea. Milk is also common in rural areas of Somaliland. Alcohol is prohibited and you will not find it publicly served anywhere in Somaliland.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Somaliland

Money Matters & ATM's in Somaliland

The Somaliland shilling (شلن صوماليلاندي in Arabic, Soomaaliland shilin in Somali), denoted by the symbol Sl.Sh., is issued in banknote denominations of 100, 500, 1000 and 5000 shillings. You may see old notes in 5-, 10-, 20-, 50- shilling denominations, and old coins in 1-, 5-, 10-, 20-shilling denominations.

Somaliland has suffered from hyperinflation, so prices change quickly, and exchange rates are unstable. In June 2018, US$1 would buy 10,000 Sl.Sh. This increased to 580,000 Sl.Sh. in Dec 2018.

Although the authorities in Somaliland have since attempted to ban usage of the Somali shilling, Somalia's currency is still the preferred means of exchange for many people in the region. US dollars are the easiest foreign currency to use.

Because of the inconvenience of carrying bundles of shilling notes, over half of Somaliland's commerce is handled through mobile phone payment apps, Zaad and e-Dahab. In marketplaces, keep an eye out for money changers sitting behind walls made of bundles of currency.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Somaliland

Somaliland - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Somaliland, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Somaliland. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Somaliland and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Somaliland. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Somaliland. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Somaliland: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Somaliland.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Somaliland: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Somaliland, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Somaliland.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Somaliland, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Somaliland, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Somaliland and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Somaliland, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Somaliland, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Somaliland without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Somaliland is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Somaliland.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Somaliland is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Somaliland, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Somaliland Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Somaliland

eHalal Group Somaliland is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Somaliland. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Somaliland.

At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Somaliland ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property.

For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Somaliland. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living.

If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Somaliland, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values.

For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Somaliland are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at realestate@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

There are hotels being constructed in all of Somaliland's major cities. Hargeisa has had most development, with regards to its infrastructural capacity and the airport has been expanded to cater for an increase in foreign and domestic tourists.

Medical Issues in Somaliland

Locals in Hargeisa drink tap water fixed by the Chinese government. The cleanliness is not perfect but adequate. However, it is better to play it safe and drink bottled water.

As with many developing countries, animals roam the streets and sanitation is poor. Be very aware of the risk of rabies. Bats may inhabit the nationside, and their bites can be nearly invisible, leaving a person unaware until it's too late.

There is a low risk of malaria in Somaliland, but the threat is still present. Many foreigners choose not to take anti-malarials.

Yellow fever is considered endemic in Somaliland. If you plan to travel to other countries that require proof of yellow fever vaccination, be sure you are vaccinated and have a certificate!

Vaccination against other endemic diseases common in developing countries (typhoid, polio, hepatitis A & B, etc.) is strongly recommended.

The infrastructure of Somaliland is still a shambles and that includes healthcare. If you have health problems or have concerns about getting treatment in an emergency, you will be putting yourself at great risk as the medical services in most areas are primitive and unsanitary by modern standards.

The most modernized and prominent hospital is the Edna Adan University Hospital in Hargeisa. However, it's mostly a maternity hospital and medical treatment there, although the staff are excellent, is limited by the serious dearth of resources in the nation. Serious conditions will require medical evacuation to Ethiopia or possibly the Middle East. Come prepared or do not come at all.

Stay Safe

Somaliland is a relatively safe place, particularly compared to neighbouring Somalia. Knowing a little of the local language or having an interpreter can go a long way in gaining information from the local population, which is a valuable tool if you wish to learn about the surrounding area.

The Somaliland government requires that all foreigners take armed guards when travelling outside of the major cities. These guards are known as SPUs (Special Protection Units) and are available from the local police department or the office of tourism in Hargeisa. The UN typically pays US$5 a day per SPU, but as a tourist it will be difficult to negotiate this price.

Under some circumstances it is feasible to travel around Somaliland without an SPU. To do this you will need a letter from the commander of police. This can be obtained from the police HQ in Hargeysa (not the police station). Take the shuttle van to 'pepsi' (pronounced with a strong 'p') from the centre of town and get off just after you cross the dry river bed; the police station is on the right hand side of the road. The commander leaves at 11am each day so you will need to turn up in the morning and you may have to argue with the guard at the gate to be allowed in; they may try to send you to the SPU building round the junction. Stand firm and insist on seeing the Commander's secretary. The commander's secretary is very helpful and used to sorting this out. Give him the names of everywhere you wish to go and he will type up the letter and get the commander to sign it. It's easy to get permission to travel to Berbera and Djibouti, other destinations may be harder and the situation may change.

The Republic of Somaliland is not recognized by any government. If you run into legal problems you are on your own, as there are no consulates to turn to for help. Learning local customs and laws is very important if you wish to minimize the chances of conflict with local authorities.

News & References Somaliland

Explore more Halal friendly Destinations from Somaliland

African Express, Jubba and Daallo airlines fly to Djibouti, Kenya, Mogadishu and Uganda. Be prepared to pay a USD72 exit fee in the airport. Berbera has an international airport that has Flights to Dubai.