Thursday May 14, 2026

Mogadishu (HOL) — Britain has updated its travel advice for Somalia, warning its citizens against all travel to most of the country because of terrorism, armed violence and volatile security conditions.
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advises against all travel to Somalia, including the eastern Somaliland regions of Togdheer, Sanaag and Sool. It said violent clashes have increased in those regions in recent months and that the situation remains unstable.
The FCDO also advises against all but essential travel to the western Somaliland regions of Awdal, Maroodijeh and Sahil, including Boorama, Hargeisa and Berbera.
The warning underscores continuing security concerns across Somalia, where political tensions, territorial disputes, militant attacks and clan-related clashes have continued to affect civilian movement and travel.
The British government said travelers should check with local authorities before approaching border areas and monitor advice for neighboring Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti. It warned that land borders may close at short notice and that people crossing without proper documents could face fines or detention.
The FCDO said the land border with Kenya is currently closed because of recent cross-border terrorist activity. It also said there have been reports of foreign nationals being stopped from crossing from Djibouti into Somalia, although that border remains open.
For the rest of Somalia, the FCDO continues to advise against all travel, citing serious ongoing violence between opposing factions in many parts of the country. It said civilians have been killed in fighting that often involves heavy weapons.
The updated guidance also warns that travel insurance could be invalidated if British nationals travel against FCDO advice. It says anyone who remains in Somalia does so at their own risk and should have an emergency plan that does not rely on support from the British government.
The advisory comes amid continued insecurity in Somalia, where government forces and allied troops are fighting al-Shabab, and as parts of Somaliland face renewed instability, particularly in contested eastern areas.

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