Djibouti

Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Djibouti. Terrorist organisation, Al-Shabaab, maintains a strong interest in attacking targets in Djibouti.

A terrorist attack could happen anywhere and at any time. Terrorists may attack Djiboutian or western targets, including travellers.

Terrorist methods could include:

• suicide bombings
• kidnappings
• roadside improvised explosive device (IED) attacks

There is a high threat of kidnapping within 10 km of Djibouti's border with Somalia (Somaliland).

Possible terrorist targets include: 

• hotels, clubs, restaurants, and bars
• schools and places of worship
• embassies
• outdoor recreation events
• markets, shopping areas, tourist areas and historic sites
• foreign military bases, airports, aircraft and military interests

Check the level of security if you're visiting a known target. To reduce your risk:

• be alert in locations that are known terrorist targets
• be alert to possible threats, especially in public
• monitor the media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow instructions from local authorities

Report any suspicious activity or items to local police.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

There’s a high threat of kidnapping within 10km of Djibouti's border with Somalia (Somaliland). Do not travel to this area. 

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

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

If you're travelling to an area where there is a threat of kidnapping:

• seek professional security advice
• have effective personal security measures in place

More information:

• Kidnapping

Civil unrest and armed conflict in Somalia, Ethiopia and Eritrea could impact your safety in Djibouti.

The security situation on the Djibouti and Eritrea border is unpredictable. Do not travel within 10km of the border with Eritrea.

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid public gatherings, protests and demonstrations
• monitor the media for reports of planned or possible unrest
• follow instructions from local authorities

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

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Pickpocketing and other petty crimes can happen.

There have been reports of bandit groups outside the capital in areas where the law has broken down.

Crime risks increase at night and in isolated locations such as Dorale and Khor Ambado beaches.

To protect yourself from crime:

• keep vehicle windows closed and doors locked at all times
• keep valuables out of sight, including when you're in a moving vehicle
• secure your accommodation against intruders at all times
• don't walk alone after dark

Piracy

There's a significant threat of piracy and armed robbery in Djibouti’s coastal waters and the Gulf of Aden, including the Sawabi (Sept-frères) Islands. You should limit unnecessary travel to these areas.

Pirates have attacked vessels and held foreigners hostage for ransom in and around Djibouti's waters.

Limit unnecessary travel to the maritime regions of the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea.  

Attractive targets for pirates include:

• commercial vessels
• pleasure craft
• luxury cruise liners

You should remain out of the designated High Risk Area or face the risk of being hijacked and held hostage for ransom. Check with the Maritime Security Centre (Horn of Africa) at www.mschoa.org. 

If you need to travel by boat to Djibouti's coastal waters and surrounds, you should:

• travel in a convoy and maintain good communications
• take appropriate security measures
• follow the latest advice from local authorities

More information

• Piracy reports issued by the International Maritime Bureau (IMB).

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas 

Djibouti can experience severe weather and natural disasters.

It's in an active seismic zone and can experience:

• earthquakes
• volcanic eruptions
• tsunamis

To protect yourself if a natural disaster occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• monitor local media and other sources
• follow advice from local authorities
• keep in contact with friends and family

More information:

• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System

Severe weather

Djibouti experiences extreme temperatures in summer. The hottest months are from May to October. Daytime temperatures can be more than 50°C.

In extreme heat, stay out of the sun and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

Strong dust storms happen in June. 

Djibouti is in a long-term drought. In some areas, the drought may affect:

• local services
• water availability
• basic food availability

Parts of Djibouti, including the capital city are prone to floods.

Earthquake and volcanic eruptions

Earthquakes can happen.

Djibouti has one active volcano, Ardoukoba. It last erupted in 1978.

Ash from a volcanic eruption can fall over a wide area.

Volcanic ash, dust and toxic fumes are a significant health risk, especially for people with respiratory problems.

Know the safety measures at each place you stay.

To protect yourself during a volcanic eruption and avoid contact with ash:

• stay inside with the windows and doors shut
• if ash is falling, place damp towels at door thresholds and other draft sources
• wear long-sleeved clothing and long pants
• wear goggles

If you need to go outside, wear a disposable face-mask and change it frequently.

Tsunamis

Tsunamis can happen.

Register for tsunami alerts from the Global Disaster Alert and Co-ordination System.

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

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• 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, monitor local media.

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Under local law, you must provide proof of adequate travel insurance to cover the full period of your stay, including coverage for a medivac if required.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won’t pay for these costs.

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 thousands 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.

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.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)

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 Djibouti. Take enough legal medicine for your trip. 

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

• what the medication is 
• your required dosage 
• that it's for personal use 

More information: 

• Medication

Insect-borne diseases

Malaria occurs through the year. Other diseases spread by insects are a risk, including:

• dengue
• filariasis

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing
• consider taking medication to prevent malaria

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

Polio

Outbreaks of polio (poliomyelitis) happen in Djibouti.

Check your polio vaccination status with your doctor or travel clinic at least 8 weeks before you travel.

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

HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS is widespread. Take steps to reduce your risk of exposure to the virus.

Other infectious diseases

Foodborne, waterborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• cholera
• hepatitis
• bilharzia (schistosomiasis)
• meningococcal disease
• rabies 
• typhoid
• tuberculosis
• COVID-19

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To avoid illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids in rural areas
• avoid ice cubes in rural areas
• avoid raw and undercooked food
• don't swim in fresh water
• avoid contact with dogs and other animals

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Dehydration and heat stroke

High summer temperatures can cause dehydration and heat stroke.

In extreme heat, stay out of the sun and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.

Medical facilities

The standard of medical facilities in Djibouti is poor. Rural areas may have very basic care or none at all. English-speaking staff may not be available. 

Payment for medical treatment is required upfront. Your treatment may be delayed if you can’t pay. 

Availability of medication in rural areas is limited and can be expensive.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive. Make sure you have adequate travel insurance, including for medical evacuation.

More information: 

• Death overseas

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

While the consumption of alcohol is legal, the sale and consumption of alcohol in all but approved locations (such as hotels) is illegal. Public intoxication is illegal and includes a penalty of up to two years imprisonment.

Photography of military installations and public infrastructure is forbidden.  

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.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe and include long jail sentences and heavy fines.

The narcotic khat is legal in Djibouti, but illegal in many other countries.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Other laws

Illegal activities in Djibouti include:

• hunting
• being drunk in public
• photographing military personnel

It's also illegal to photograph infrastructure, such as government buildings, ports, airports, bridges and military facilities.

If you take photos near prohibited places, you may:

• have your equipment confiscated
• be arrested

If in doubt, ask for advice from local authorities.

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

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

More information:

• Dual nationals

Over 94% of Djiboutians are Muslim. Standards for dress and behaviour are conservative. Be respectful toward religious and social traditions.

The working week is Sunday to Thursday. Many shops, clinics, and other amenities are closed on Fridays. 

LGBTQIA+ information

Same-sex relationships are legal in Djibouti, but not widely accepted.

More information:

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Cultural dates

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

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

Airline schedules can be affected during the month of Ramadan. Check flight schedules with your travel provider. 

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

Visa conditions

You need a visa to visit Djibouti. Check the official e-visa portal for information.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the Embassy of Djibouti in Tokyo for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Border measures

To enter Djibouti, you may be required to show a copy of your COVID-19 vaccination certificate. 

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Djibouti, especially if you're arriving from a country where yellow fever is common.

More information:

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever

Validity

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. It 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.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:  

• LGBTQIA+ travellers

The local currency is the Djibouti Franc (DJF).

Traveller's cheques can be exchanged at major banks.

Djibouti has a cash-based economy. Credit cards aren't widely accepted. USD can be changed at major hotels and some banks.

There are a limited number of ATMs, but they often don't work.

Ask your bank if your card will work in Djibouti.

Telecommunications

Communications networks are limited in the city of Djibouti. Outside the capital, mobile coverage is often unavailable or non-existent. Consider getting a local SIM. You will need to present your passport to purchase a local SIM.

Landmines

Djibouti is a 'mine-safe' country. This means landmines have been identified and marked, but haven't been removed.

For your safety, remain on paved roads, especially in:

• northern districts of Tadjoura and Obock
• southern district of Ali Sabieh

Remote areas

Security is limited in remote areas, including regions bordering Ethiopia and Somalia.

You need permission from the Government of Djibouti to travel above the 12° north latitude line, which passes through Obock.

Avoid travel to remote areas.

Essential services

Djibouti is one of the world's most arid countries experiencing severe drought. In some areas, the drought may affect:

• local services
• water availability
• basic food availability

Driving permit

To drive in Djibouti, you need both:

• a valid Australian driver’s licence
• a valid International Driving Permit (IDP)

You must get your IDP before leaving Australia.

Road travel

Conditions on roads are unsafe, especially in central Djibouti and the Ethiopia-Djibouti border.

Hazards include:

• narrow or poorly lit roads
• poorly maintained roads and vehicles
• poorly managed traffic
• inadequate signs at railway crossings
• roaming livestock, especially at night

The standard of driving and vehicle maintenance is poor. Exercise caution at intersections; drivers often run red lights and do not stop at intersections. Avoid driving outside the city, especially to the north and Abbey Lake.

Police have set up wire coils as roadblocks on some major roads, which can be difficult to see at night.

In an accident, drivers must wait at the scene until police arrive.

Bandit groups are a threat outside the capital.

Before you drive:

• check you have adequate insurance
• check local traffic laws and practices
• check local information on road conditions, including security risks

To reduce your risks while driving:

• before embarking on long drives, get enough fuel
• only drive outside the capital during daylight hours and in a convoy
• be alert to hazards, especially at night
• don't drink and drive

More information

• Safety
• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check whether your travel insurance policy covers you when using a motorcycle, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Avoid using taxis; they are often in poor condition and unsafe.

Use a reputable car rental company or hotel transport provider. 

Public transport

Public transport is limited to bus and ferry services between the capital city and the towns of Tadjoura and Obock. Avoid travel by public transport.

Don't travel at night.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Sea travel

There's a high risk of piracy in coastal areas. See Safety

To stay safe when travelling on the water:

• use a reputable provider
• always wear a life jacket
• exercise extreme caution
• take appropriate security precautions

Air travel

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

Check Djibouti'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

Fire and rescue services

Call 18.

Medical emergencies

Call 18 or go to the nearest hospital.

Police

Call 18, or go to the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

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

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Djibouti.

For consular assistance, contact the Australian Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Australian Embassy, Addis Ababa

Turkish compound (off Cape Verde street)

Bole Subcity, Woreda 3

PO Box 3715

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Phone: +251 11 6672651 / 6672652 / 6672693 / 6672694

Email: Consular.AddisAbaba@dfat.gov.au

Website: ethiopia.embassy.gov.au

Facebook: @AusEmb.ET

X: @AusEmbET

See the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

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

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