Somalia

Terrorist attacks occur often in Somalia, and can take place anywhere, at any time. Targets include Somali government officials, foreigners and UN workers. Attacks have occurred in Mogadishu, Beledweyne, Baidoa, Galkayo and Kismayo and have resulted in hundreds of fatalities and injuries. 

Somali militants have threatened attacks throughout the country. 

Aden Adde International Airport is a high-priority target because of the large number of foreigners present. 

Common targets

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

Foreigners and Somalis working for international organisations and the African Union Stabilisation Support Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) are also targeted.

Attacks could involve explosions, car bombs and armed gunmen.

Other targets for attacks include:

• hotels, clubs, restaurants, bars and other commercial and public areas visited by government officials and foreigners
• foreign interests, including embassies, oil companies, oil infrastructure and oil fields
• 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
• residential areas

Attacks intensify during days of national significance and religious festivals, including Ramadan.

Security

Do not travel to Somalia. If you're already there, leave Somalia as soon as possible. 

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

If, despite our advice, you decide to stay, you should:

• 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

If there’s a terrorist incident, leave the area if it’s safe to do so and follow the instructions of local authorities. 

• 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. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places.

More information:

• Terrorism

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk.

The kidnapping risk is very high in all parts of Somalia, including Puntland and Somaliland, and in regions bordering Kenya and Ethiopia. Several active terrorist groups have the intent and capability to kidnap foreigners, including aid workers and journalists. Many foreigners, including those of Somali descent, have been kidnapped in Somalia. Kidnappers may be motivated by crime or terrorism. Armed groups in Somalia have also held foreigners kidnapped from Kenya. 

If despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping our ability, be aware that our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations is limited. 

You are responsible for your own safety. To reduce the risk of being kidnapped:

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings - avoid distractions. Be prepared to stop or take evasive action if you sense danger
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk. It is essential to have a contingency plan
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures
• vary your movements so you don't set predictable patterns
• keep a low profile – including online. Drawing attention to yourself in high-risk areas may signal to criminals that you have something worth taking
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone. There is safety in numbers, and you should try to travel with someone else, especially at night
• notify family or friends of planned travel; share your location and emergency contacts that they can rely on if something happens
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone. Criminals have been known to search social media for victims
• If you are confronted by armed criminals, it is best to surrender and cooperate – resistance tends to make the situation worse

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers. Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Ransom payments to terrorist groups are likely to contravene Australian counter-terrorism financing laws. 

More information:

• Kidnapping
• Reducing the risk of piracy

Political and community-based violence is common across Somalia, including Somaliland. Demonstrations can occur and turn violent without warning.  

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

Anti-Western attitudes are strong in some regions. Foreigners can be violently harassed, including people of Somali descent.

There are cases of HIV/AIDS in Somalia. If you're a victim of violent crime, including rape, see a doctor as soon as possible.

More information: 

• Crime overseas
• Sexual assault

Piracy

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

Pirates are heavily armed, have attacked vessels and held foreigners hostage for ransom in the Gulf of Aden.

Attractive targets for pirates include:

• local fishing dhows
• commercial boats
• pleasure crafts
• luxury cruise liners

Don't travel in or near Somali waters, or you face the risk of being hijacked and held hostage for ransom. 

If you need to travel by boat in or near Somali waters, you should:

• stay out of the designated High Risk Area
• travel in groups or convoys
• always stay in close contact with convoy members
• arrange personal security

More information:

• Advice for sailing vessels (Maritime Security Centre - Horn of Africa)
• Piracy reports issued by the International Maritime Bureau (IMB).

Cultural 'rehabilitation' facilities and schools

The Australian High Commission in Kenya has received reports that some schools and institutions acting as 'cultural rehabilitation' centres operate in Somalia without oversight. The reports claim that minors and young adults may be abused and held against their will in these facilities.

We are limited in the assistance we can provide. Communication with the centres or people in them may not be possible or take a long time to establish.

Drink spiking

Methanol poisoning

Cyber security

Social media use

Social media can also be risky in destinations with social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards.

Australians have been arrested for social media activity and comments made while in or outside of Somalia. This may include posting, re-posting, or liking content that is critical of Somalia's national leaders, religion, culture or policies.

Misuse of social media can carry serious consequences, including arrest, prosecution, fines and imprisonment. Always exercise caution and respect local laws and sensitivities when using social media while abroad. Don't comment on local or political events or figures on social media.

Other factors 

Extreme weather conditions in southern and central Somalia have added to the unstable security environment. Areas bordering Ethiopia and Kenya are also affected.

Food shortages and population displacements have left thousands of people homeless and vulnerable. This has led to more disease and more crime.

Somalia experiences extreme weather and natural disasters, 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
• keep in touch with friends and family.

If you're near the coast, move immediately to high ground if advised to 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.

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System to receive alerts on major disasters.

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, leading to more disease and higher security threats to foreigners.

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

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

Ask your doctor about health risks and vaccines before you go.

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
• chikungunya

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 medication to prevent malaria.

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

Other health risks

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

• diphtheria
• cholera
• typhoid
• hepatitis
• meningitis
• measles
• rabies
• tuberculosis
• rift valley fever

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.

Polio

Outbreaks of polio have occurred in Somalia.

Check your polio vaccination status with your doctor or travel clinic at least 8 weeks before you travel. You may need a booster dose.

If you aren't vaccinated, complete the full course of vaccinations before you leave.

If you're staying in Somalia for longer than 4 weeks, you'll need to show proof when you 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:

• Global Polio Eradication Initiative

HIV/AIDS

There are cases of HIV/AIDS in Somalia.

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.

More information:

• Infectious diseases

Medical facilities 

Medical facilities in Somalia are extremely limited.

You'll need to be evacuated if you get seriously ill or injured. Medical evacuation may not be possible and can be very expensive. Most Australian travel insurance policies won't cover you for travel to Somalia. 

There’s no agreement between Australia and Somalia for free healthcare. Tourists must pay for all medical care, even if they need to stay in hospital or be evacuated. This can be very expensive. Make sure your travel insurance covers you. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

When you travel to another country, you must follow their laws. Even if they seem strict compared to Australia's. Before you go, learn about the local laws in that country.

The Australian Government is limited in how and when we can help if you're arrested overseas. We can't get you out of trouble or out of jail. Understand our limits. Read the Consular Services Charter.

Consular help

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
• sexual assault and rape

Be aware of your rights and responsibilities.

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

Same-sex relationships are illegal in Somalia. Punishments under strict Sharia law include flogging or death. There are no laws against spousal violence, including rape. If you experience sexual assault, consider contacting the Consular Emergency Centre or the Australian High Commission in Nairobi to discuss your circumstances.

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

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Some Australian laws still apply even if you’re in another country. You could be charged in Australia if you break these laws overseas.

Australia implements UN sanctions on Somalia, including an arms embargo.  

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:

• Advice for dual nationals

Cultural sensitivities

Somalia has strict conservative standards of dress and behaviour. If in doubt, ask for local advice.

Ramadan

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan is observed in Somalia. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking, and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Visas

Previously, the Somali Immigration and Citizenship Agency confirmed a data breach affecting its e-visa system. Leaked data from the breach potentially includes visa applicants’ personal details, including names, photos, dates of births and home addresses. 

Australians who have applied for a Somali e-visa may be affected, exposing personal data you entered into the system. 

You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of Somalia for the latest details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules. 

If despite our advice you choose to travel, consider the risks before applying for a visa. Visas are mandatory for all foreign visitors. You can apply online at the Immigration and Citizenship Agency. 

Entry and exit requirements can change at short notice. Visas might not be valid in areas where the central government's authority is challenged, particularly in Somaliland and Puntland. If you're visiting these areas, direct your visa enquiries to the person or organisation you will be visiting.

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

More information:

• If you have questions concerning data breaches and scams, visit the Australian Passport Office website.

Border measures

International and domestic flights are operating. Flights and airport access may change without warning.

Passengers must arrive at the border checkpoint at least 3 hours before departure for health and safety procedures.

Land borders with countries neighbouring Somalia may close at short notice. Check with local authorities before travelling to the border. You should also monitor Travel Advice for Ethiopia, Kenya or Djibouti. 

Don't cross the border without the correct documents, as officials may stop you. You may get a fine or detention if you cross borders illegally. The land border with Kenya is currently closed due to recent cross border terrorist activity. There have been reports that foreign nationals have been prevented from crossing the Djiboutian border into Somalia, though the border remains open.

Yellow fever vaccination

You'll need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Somalia. Some airlines may want to see one when you leave.

Find out about returning to Australia if you've been exposed to yellow fever.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever

Validity

Lost or stolen passport

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

The local currency is the Somali Shilling (SOS), except in Somaliland, which uses the Somaliland Shilling. US dollars are widely accepted.

The government regulates currency transfer and exchange. 

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

ATMs aren't usually available.

Landmines

Landmines and unexploded ordnance 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. 

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

Air travel

Aden Adde International Airport is a high-priority target for attack due to the presence of foreigners. Due to security threats, it's often closed with little or no warning.

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

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

There are limits to what consular assistance we can provide in high-risk locations. Read the Consular Services Charter to understand how we can assist 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.

You may consider registering for updates from other missions in Somalia:

• US Somalia travel advisory
• UK Somalia travel advice 

Australian High Commission, Nairobi

Limuru Road, Rosslyn
Nairobi, Kenya 
PO Box 3008 - 00

Phone: +254 20 427 7100 
Email: australia.hc.kenya@dfat.gov.au
Website: kenya.highcommission.gov.au 
Facebook: Australian High Commission, Kenya
Twitter: @AusHCKenya

Instagram: @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