Somalia

Terror attacks happen very often in Somalia. Terror attacks can take place anywhere, at any time.

Somali militants have threatened attacks throughout the country. This includes in Mogadishu, Puntland and Somaliland. They have the proven capacity to carry out such attacks.

Mogadishu International Airport is a high-priority target because of the large numbers of Westerners there. Terrorists have targeted aircraft and airports. 

Recent terrorist attacks

Many recent attacks have targeted Somali government officials, foreigners and UN workers.

Significant recent attacks include:

• July 2019 - a suicide attack on the Mayor's office in Mogadishu killed the mayor and several advisers.
• July 2019 - an attack at a hotel in the city of Kismaayo in southern Somalia, killed 26 people and over 50 injured
• November 2018 — Al Shabaab attacked the Sahafi hotel near the CID Police Headquarters in Mogadishu, killing 39 people.
• October 2018 — 2 suicide bombers killed at least 19 people at a restaurant and hotel in Baidoa.
• February 2018 — a suicide car bomb near the Presidential Palace killed at least 32 people.
• December 2017 — a suicide bomber killed at least 18 police officers at a training centre in Mogadishu.
• October 2017 — Al Shabaab attacked the Nasa-Hablod Hotel in Mogadishu, killing at least 27 people.
• October 2017 — 2 vehicle bombs in central Mogadishu killed 358 people and injured many more.
• September 2017 — a car bomb in Mogadishu killed 7 people.
• September 2017 — Al Shabaab attacked military bases outside of Mogadishu and in Kismayo, killing Somali soldiers.
• August 2017 — a car bomb in Kismayo killed up to 20 people.
• July 2017 — a bomb in central Mogadishu killed up to 7 people.

Common targets

Deadly attacks against government targets, including buildings, are common.

Westerners and people working for international organisations and the Africa Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) are also targets.

Many attacks involve multiple explosions, car bombs and armed gunmen.

Other possible targets for attacks include:

• hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars and other commercial and public areas where foreigners go
• foreign interests such as embassies
• places of worship, schools, markets, shopping areas, tourist areas, historic sites, outdoor recreation events and other public spaces
• transport and transport infrastructure, including airports and aircraft
• foreign oil companies, oil infrastructure, and oil fields
• residential areas

Days of national significance and religious festivals such as Ramadan have seen more attacks than usual.

Somalia isn't safe. It doesn't have an effective police force.

Don't travel to Somalia, or leave Somalia as soon as possible.

If, despite our advice, you decide to stay:

• get professional security advice
• arrange personal security measures
• plan for uncertainty and stock up on essential items (water, food, toiletries, fuel and prescription medication)
• limit your movements, especially around days of national significance and religious festivals
• be alert at all times
• have a clear exit plan

To reduce your risks if there's an attack:

• leave the area straight away if it's safe to do so
• avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks
• monitor the media for any new or emerging threats

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

The kidnapping risk is very high in all parts of Somalia. This includes Puntland and Somaliland.

Kidnappers may be motivated by crime or terrorism.

Many foreigners, including those of Somali descent, have been kidnapped in Somalia.

Armed groups in Somalia have held Westerners kidnapped from Kenya.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Don't travel to Somalia. If, despite our advice, you are there, leave Somalia as soon as possible. Until you can leave:

• keep a low profile
• vary your routines, so your movements don't become predictable to observers

More information:

• Kidnapping

Tentative dates for Somali elections have been proposed. Commencing with Upper House elections in mid-October and finishing in early February with the Presidential election. A spike in violence is likely to correspond with the electoral process including possible attempts to disrupt the elections.

Armed conflict

Residential areas and markets in south-central Somalia have experienced shootings and grenade attacks.

If you're in Somalia despite our advice:

• avoid areas where conflict is ongoing or political tensions are highest
• avoid all protests, rallies, demonstrations and other public gatherings

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Violent crime

There's no effective police force in Somalia. There's a breakdown in law and order. Lawlessness, clan violence and looting are common.

Anti-Western attitudes are strong in some parts of Somalia. Foreigners are sometimes violently harassed. This includes people of Somali descent.

Other factors

Droughts and delayed rainfall in southern and central Somalia have added to the unstable security environment. Areas bordering Ethiopia and Kenya are also affected.

Food shortages and military attacks have left thousands of people without a home. This has led to more disease and more crime.

If you're in Somalia despite our advice:

• always travel with your vehicle's doors locked and windows up
• lock the doors and windows of your accommodation
• be alert at all times

HIV/AIDS is widespread. If you're a victim of violent crime, including rape, see a doctor as soon as possible.

Somalia experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including tsunamis.

If, despite our advice, you travel to or stay in Somalia and a natural disaster occurs:

• store your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• monitor local media and the World Meteorological Organization Severe Weather Information Centre
• check other sources such as the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• keep in touch with friends and family

If you're near the coast, move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities, or if you:

• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings, such as alarms or sirens. Once on high ground, check local media.

Severe weather

Somalia's weather can be extreme. There are regular droughts and floods.

Because of severe weather, many areas of Somalia suffer from food shortages. Thousands of people are left without a place to live. This leads to more disease and higher security threats to foreigners.

Somalia is often very hot. The average maximum temperature can be more than 45˚C.

Stay out of the sun and drink water to avoid dehydration.

The monsoon season runs from May to October in the south-west. It's from December to February in the north-east.

This advice predates COVID-19 and the Australian Government's travel ban for all Australians.

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

You'll need a specialised insurance policy that covers travel to high-risk destinations. Most Australian policies won't cover you for travel to Somalia.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

More information:

• General health advice
• International travel and health

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Somalia. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• how much you'll take
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

COVID-19

COVID-19 remains a risk in Somalia.

More information

• Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Department of Health)
• Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Insect-borne diseases

Malaria occurs throughout the year in all parts of Somalia. Current treatments aren't effective against some strains.

Other insect-borne diseases also occur. These include:

• dengue
• yellow fever
• filariasis
• leishmaniasis

To protect yourself from disease:

• ensure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Get vaccinated against yellow fever before you travel.

Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Polio

In 2014, the World Health Organization (WHO) called the spread of wild poliovirus a 'public health emergency of international concern'. It issued recommendations that may affect travel to Somalia.

To protect yourself against polio:

• make sure you're up to date with vaccinations against polio, including a booster dose if required
• speak to your doctor if you're unsure whether you're fully vaccinated for polio

If you're staying longer than 4 weeks, you'll need to show proof on exit that you've had the polio vaccine or a booster within the past 12 months. If you don't, you may need to be vaccinated before leaving Somalia.

More information:

• Polio 
• Australian Immunisation Handbook

HIV/AIDS

The rate of HIV/AIDS infection in Somalia is high.

Protect yourself from infection if engaging in activities that expose you to risk.

If you're a victim of violent crime, including rape, get medical help as soon as possible.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• cholera
• hepatitis
• meningococcal disease
• measles
• tuberculosis
• meningitis
• Rift Valley fever
• typhoid

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• don't swim in fresh water to avoid exposure to waterborne diseases

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Medical facilities

Medical facilities in Somalia are extremely limited.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to a place with suitable facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. It can also be difficult to organise.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Consular help

Somalia hasn't signed the Vienna Conventions on diplomatic and consular relations.

If you're arrested or detained, you may not be able to contact the Australian Government or access consular services.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They may include prison and heavy fines.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

Courts operate under both Somali and sharia law.

Strict sharia law is in force in areas under Al-Shabaab control. Sentences include physical punishments such as flogging and the death penalty.

Get professional advice on local legal matters, particularly about:

• divorce
• child custody
• child support

Be aware of your rights and responsibilities.

Criminal laws are enforced inconsistently in Somalia. Due process isn't always followed.

Same-sex relations are illegal in Somalia. Punishments under strict sharia law include flogging or death.

It's also illegal to preach a religion other than Islam in Puntland or Somaliland.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

It's illegal to support military activities of any armed group in Somalia without permission from the Australian Government. This includes:

• fighting
• funding, training or recruiting someone to fight
• supplying or funding weapons or military equipment

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs
• Forced marriage
• Female genital mutilation
• Sanctions

If you're an Australian-Somali dual national, Somali officials will treat you as Somali.

You may not be able to contact the Australian Government if you're arrested or detained. Consular help may be limited.

More information:

• Dual nationals

Strict conservative standards of dress and behaviour are followed in Somalia. If in doubt, ask for local advice.

Cultural sensitivities

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan will be from late April to late May in 2020. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

Avoid eating, drinking and smoking in public and around people who are fasting.

Visa conditions

Entry and exit requirements can change. Contact an Embassy or Consulate-General of Somalia for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Visa validity

Consulates-General and other diplomatic missions of Somalia have connections with the central government. However, the central government's authority isn't recognised everywhere.

Visas might not be valid in areas where the central government's authority is challenged.

More information:

Permanent Representative of the Somali Republic to the United Nations
425 East 61st Street, Suite 702
New York, 10021, United States
Phone: (+212) 688 9410/5046
Fax: (+212) 759 0651

COVID-19

International and domestic flights are operating. If you travel to Somalia despite our advice, you'll need a COVID-19 negative certificate issued no more than 72 hours prior to boarding your flight in order to gain entry.

A night-time curfew is in place in Mogadishu. All movements and businesses within the city must stop from 8 pm to 5 am daily, except for hospitals, medical centres and pharmacies.

Land borders with countries neighbouring Somalia may close at short notice. You should check with local authorities before travelling to the border. You should also monitor Travel Advice for Ethiopia, Kenya or Djibouti. You should not cross the border without the correct documents.

All land borders and all sea ports are currently closed in Somaliland. You should check with local authorities before travelling to the border.

A reduced flight service still operates between Hargeisa and Addis Ababa if you wish to leave Somaliland.

Local authorities in Somaliland have announced measures to limit the spread of COVID-19, including the closure of schools and mosques. There is a ban on large public gatherings and public transport between cities is limited. If you don't follow these rules you may be fined or arrested.

If you stay in Somalia, follow the advice of local authorities, make arrangements for a possible extended stay and take care to protect yourself from exposure to COVID-19.

Yellow fever vaccination

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Somalia.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 74KB)

Validity

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

The local currency is the Somali Shilling (SOS). US dollars are widely accepted.

The government regulates currency transfer and exchange. 

Australian currency, credit cards and traveller's cheques aren't accepted.

ATMs are usually not available.

Landmines

Landmines are a danger throughout Somalia.

Road travel

Road travel in Somalia is dangerous.

Hazards include terrorism, poor road conditions, landmines and criminal activity.

Illegal roadblocks are common. See Safety

If you need to travel by road:

• get local advice on routes
• seek professional security advice
• take steps to protect your safety
• make backup plans

More information:

• Driving or riding

Sea travel

Pirate attacks in and around Somalia's waters, the Indian Ocean and the Gulf of Aden are a serious threat. This includes far off the Somali coast.

Pirates are heavily armed.

Attractive targets for pirates include:

• commercial boats
• pleasure crafts
• luxury cruise liners

The International Maritime Bureau (IMB) publishes piracy reports.

Don't travel in Somali waters or surrounds.

To protect yourself if you need to travel by boat in Somali waters or surrounds:

• stay more than 1000 nautical miles (1850km) from the coast of the Horn of Africa
• travel in groups or in 'convoy'
• always stay in close contact with convoy members
• arrange personal security

More information:

• Maritime Security Centre Horn of Africa

Air travel

Mogadishu International Airport is a high-priority target for attack due to the presence of Westerners.

Other airports and aircraft are also possible targets for terror attacks.

In February 2016, a bomb exploded on a commercial flight to Djibouti from Mogadishu. The terrorists carried the explosive device onto the plane.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Somalia's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

The security situation in Somalia limits the ability of the Australian Government to provide consular help.

Australia doesn't have a diplomatic mission in Somalia. Contact the Australian High Commission in Kenya for consular help.

Australian High Commission, Nairobi

Limuru Road, Rosslyn
Nairobi, Kenya 
P.O Box 3008 - 00
Phone: +254 20 427 7100 
Fax: +254 20 427 7139 
Website: kenya.highcommission.gov.au 
Facebook: Australia in East Africa 
Twitter: @AusHCKenya

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia