Djibouti (جيبوتي)

US jet fighters at the coast of Djibouti
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:US_Navy_071204-N-3931M-132_Two_U.S._Navy_F-A-18_aircraft_from_the_Red_Rippers_of_Strike_Fighter_Squadron_(VFA)_11_conduct_bombing_exercises_at_the_Gordia_bombing_range_off_the_coast_of_Djibouti.jpg
Author: US Navy photo


Djibouti, or the Republic of Djibouti, is a small country in the Horn of Africa. Its capital and largest city is also called Djibouti. The country is bordered by Eritrea to the north, Ethiopia to the west and south, and Somalia to the southeast. It has a coastline facing the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden to the east. Djibouti covers 23,200 sq km (8,958 sq mi) and has a population of just under 900,000 (2011 estimate). Its official languages are Arabic and French.

Djibouti was ruled by the French since 1894. It obtained its independence from France on 27 June, 1977. Today it is a republic with a president and prime minister. The country is three hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+3). Its official currency is the Djibouti franc (DJF). Traffic drives on the right here. The phone IDD code is +253. The electricity is 220V/240V 50Hz. 94% of the population are Muslims.

Djibouti is a poor and unstable country. In 2010, it had an estimated nominal GDP of $1.128 billion, equal to a per capita nominal GDP of $1,369. Its per capita GDP at purchasing power parity stood at $2,549.

An open-air market with stalls in front of dilapidated building in Djibouti City
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Djibouti_city_corner_building.jpg
Author: Charles Roffey


Mosque at market place in Djibouti City
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Djib_005.JPG
Author: Tyke

Planning your visit to Djibouti

Since February 2011 Djibouti has been rocked by demonstrations that has spread across the Arab world. The demonstrators are demanding that President Guelleh step down. Due to the turmoil, visitors are discouraged from making casual visits to the country until the situation improves.

Most visitors need a visa to enter Djibouti. Nationals of France and Singapore can get a visa upon arrival at 5,000 Djibouti francs, valid for a month.

The Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport (JIB) is the gateway into the country. It receives Air France flights from Paris. Other flights link it to destinations in Africa.

Major Cities in Djibouti

Places of Interest in Djibouti

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