Entry Requirements and Visas
Most visitors can obtain a visa on arrival at Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport for 15,000 DJF or 90 USD, valid for one month. If you hold a Singaporean passport, you can enter visa-free. Transit visas valid for 10 days are available on arrival for nationals of European Union countries, Scandinavian countries, and the United States for 10,000 DJF.
If you plan to enter by land, you must arrange your visa in advance. Visas can be obtained from embassies in neighbouring countries such as Addis Ababa, or from French embassies where no Djibouti embassy exists. E-visas are theoretically available but have been subject to unexplained rejections and delays, so arranging a visa through an embassy is more reliable.
Various visa types are available including tourist, business, and entry visas. An International Driving Permit is recommended if you plan to rent a car, though not legally required.
Money, Currency, and Costs
The currency is the Djiboutian Franc (DJF). Based on recent data, budget accommodation and basic meals are inexpensive, with data packages costing around 3 USD for 1GB. A visa on arrival costs approximately 90 USD. Be prepared to carry cash, as doctors and hospitals typically expect immediate payment for medical treatment.
Staying Safe and Emergency Contacts
Djibouti City is generally safe for visitors, but you should be aware of the risk of banditry outside the capital. Avoid travelling to remote areas, particularly toward the Ethiopian border, where personal security may be at risk. Road conditions in these regions are poor.
The country experiences natural hazards including earthquakes, droughts, and occasional cyclonic disturbances from the Indian Ocean that can cause heavy rains and flash floods. The international dialing code for Djibouti is +253, which you can use to contact emergency services or your embassy if needed.
Health
Health insurance is strongly advisable. Several vaccinations are recommended before travel:
- Yellow fever vaccination is required if you are over one year old and arriving from infected areas
- Typhoid immunization is usually advised
- Cholera precautions are essential, though medical opinion varies on vaccine effectiveness
Malaria is a year-round risk, predominantly the falciparum form. Chloroquine resistance has been reported, so mefloquine, doxycycline, or atovaquone/proguanil are recommended. The adult HIV/AIDS prevalence rate is over 3%, so take appropriate precautions.
Tap water is not safe to drink unless it has been boiled or sterilized. Doctors and hospitals expect immediate cash payment for treatment, making comprehensive health insurance essential.
Staying Connected
A 3G phone network operates on 900MHz throughout the country. Connection speeds reach a maximum of 7 Mbps, though expect lower speeds in practice. Data is inexpensive—approximately 3 USD for 1GB—making it affordable to stay connected during your visit. You can obtain a local SIM card upon arrival or arrange one before travelling.
Local Customs and Etiquette
Djibouti is a Muslim country where about 94% of the population adheres to Islam. Casual wear is widely acceptable, but dress respectfully: avoid wearing shorts outside of hotels, beaches, or during sports activities. The official languages are French and Arabic, with Afar and Somali also widely spoken.
While homosexuality is not explicitly criminalized, it remains broadly unaccepted in Djiboutian society. Djibouti is generally considered unsafe for LGBTQ+ travellers in all locations, so exercise caution if you are LGBTQ+.