Djibouti, a small nation in the Horn of Africa, is known for its strategic location at the Red Sea's entrance. Its diverse landscape features rugged mountains, desert plains, and Lake Assal, Africa's lowest point. With a population of about 1 million, Djibouti's economy relies heavily on port services.

The culture blends Somali and Afar influences, with Islam as the main religion. French and Arabic are official languages, alongside Somali and Afar. Independent since 1977, Djibouti plays a crucial role in global trade and geopolitics despite its size. The country faces economic challenges but leverages its position as a gateway between Africa and the Middle East for development.

Documents

Driving

Currency

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Djibouti.
Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Djibouti.

Visa Requirements

Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from several nations, including most African Union countries, can enter Djibouti with a valid passport and stay for up to 30 days within a 180-day period without a visa.
Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not on the visa-exempt list must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Djibouti, either through an embassy or upon arrival (subject to approval).

Special Entry Provisions

Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) can enter Djibouti without an additional visa.
Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) can enter without a Djibouti visa.
Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK can enter without a visa.

ID Card Entry

No countries are permitted to enter Djibouti using only a national ID card. A passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 30 days within 180 days. Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 1 year.
Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 30 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Official Djibouti e-Visa application portal: https://www.evisa-djibouti.dj/
Visa regime information: https://www.diplomatie.dj/en/visa-information
Djibouti Immigration Services: https://www.immigration-djibouti.dj/

Additional Considerations

Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 30 days within a 180-day period unless extended.
Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; contact the nearest Djiboutian embassy or consulate.
COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements (e.g., vaccination certificates or testing) via the Ministry of Health.

Driving in Djibouti

Current Toll Roads

As of 2025, Djibouti has no official toll roads. Major routes like the Djibouti-Ethiopia Corridor (RN1) are publicly funded, but tolls may be introduced on key routes in the future due to infrastructure needs.

Toll Rates and Payment

Toll rates: Not applicable yet; monitor updates from the Djibouti Road Authority.
Payment Methods:
- Cash: Djiboutian Franc (DJF) would be accepted if tolls are introduced.
- Credit/Debit Cards: Unlikely to be accepted initially; cash is king.
- Electronic Toll Collection: No system currently exists.

Driving in Djibouti

Drive on the right side of the road.
Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants, though enforcement is limited.
Speed limits:
- Urban areas: 40 km/h
- Rural roads: 60 km/h
- Highways: 80 km/h
Road conditions: Vary; urban roads in Djibouti City are generally good, but rural roads are often unpaved, sandy, or rocky, especially during the rainy season (November to March).
International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license for stays up to 3 months; longer stays require a Djiboutian driver’s license.

Important Considerations

Vignette System: Djibouti has no vignette system, but road taxes or checkpoints may apply—check locally.
Road Safety: Roads are hazardous due to poor maintenance in rural areas, aggressive drivers, and occasional livestock. Avoid night driving outside urban areas.
GPS and Maps: GPS is reliable in urban areas but unreliable in rural regions; keep an updated physical map.
Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (service may be limited in remote areas).

Useful Links

Djibouti Road Authority: https://www.mpw-djibouti.dj/en/roads (Ministry of Public Works).
Ministry of Transport: https://www.mot-djibouti.dj/
E-Djibouti Services Portal: https://www.gouv.dj/en/services

Djibouti Currency

The official currency of Djibouti is the Djiboutian Franc (DJF).

Key Information

Banknotes: 1000, 2000, 5000, 10000 DJF
Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 250, 500 DJF
Symbol: Fdj

Currency Exchange

Exchange services available at banks, Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport, and major hotels in Djibouti City.
ATMs are widely available in urban areas for direct DJF withdrawals (major UK, US, and Euro cards accepted).

Payment Methods

Cash is preferred, especially outside urban areas.
Credit/debit cards are accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments in Djibouti City.

Travel Tips

Inform your bank of travel plans.
Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas.
Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of Djibouti website: https://www.banque-centrale.dj/en/exchange-rates

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Djibouti

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Djibouti, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
Alcohol & Smoking:
- Public intoxication is frowned upon and may result in fines.
- Smoking banned in indoor public spaces and on public transport.
Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing sensitive political or religious issues, especially related to the government or regional tensions with neighboring countries.
LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal, with penalties up to 3 years in prison. 2SLGBTQI+ travelers should carefully consider the risks of traveling to Djibouti.
Photography: Restricted near government buildings, military sites, ports, or sensitive installations. Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
Cash: Declare amounts over $10,000 USD (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products.
Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

Report lost/damaged luggage within 7 days at the airport via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR).

Complaints

Submit grievances to the Djibouti Tourism Office or local police stations.

Beach Access

Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated on major beaches like those in Djibouti City.

Key Resources

Djibouti Tourism Agency: https://www.tourism-djibouti.dj/ (Tourist rights & complaints).

Djibouti Safety

Djibouti is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Djibouti.

Safety Overview

Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets or ports. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
Solo/Female Travelers: Djibouti is considered safe, with locals often going out of their way to assist visitors. Avoid isolated areas at night.

Road Safety

Driving can be challenging due to narrow roads, aggressive drivers, and poor rural road conditions.
Avoid night driving outside urban areas due to limited lighting and road hazards.
Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory, though enforcement is limited.

Health Risks

Food/Water Safety:
- Avoid tap water; drink bottled or purified water.
- Practice safe eating habits to prevent travelers’ diarrhea.
Vaccinations:
- Required: Yellow fever (for all travelers over 1 year old).
- Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, polio, hepatitis B, rabies, malaria prophylaxis, and COVID-19.
Insect-Borne Diseases: Malaria, dengue, and chikungunya are present; use repellent and bed nets.
Altitude Sickness: Minimal risk, as no areas exceed 2,028 meters (Mount Moussa Ali).

Medical Facilities

Hospitals: Private facilities like the International Hospital Center in Djibouti City offer higher standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
Pharmacies: Available in cities; stock essential medications, though supplies can be limited.
Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
Ambulance: 19 | Fire: 18 | Police: 17.
Tourist Police (Djibouti City): +253 21 35 20 20.