10 February 2016
- Latest updates: – Terrorism section – on 2 February 2016 there was an explosion on a Daallo Airlines flight to Djibouti from Mogadishu and in January there was a major terror attacks at Lido beach in Mogadishu; Safety and security section – British government officials serving in Somalia live and work under strict security rules
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advise against all travel to Somalia, including Somaliland except for the cities of Hargeisa and Berbera to which the FCO advise against all but essential travel. Any British nationals in areas of Somalia to which the FCO advise against all travel should leave. Any British nationals in Hargeisa or Berbera who are not on essential travel should leave.
There is a high threat from terrorism, including kidnapping, throughout Somalia, including Somaliland. Terrorist groups have made threats against westerners and those working for western organisations. There is a constant threat of terrorist attack in Mogadishu and terrorists continue to plan attacks against westerners in the rest of Somalia including Somaliland.
On 2 February 2016 there was an explosion on a Daallo Airlines flight to Djibouti from Mogadishu. Somali authorities have confirmed the incident was caused by an explosive device inside the aircraft which was brought on to the plane at Mogadishu.
Terrorist attacks could be indiscriminate, including in crowded places, high-profile events, events involving government officials and in places frequented by foreigners. See Terrorism.
Piracy is a significant threat in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean. There is also a high threat of maritime terrorism in the territorial and international waters off Somalia. See Sea travel.
All areas across Somalia are suffering food shortages resulting in the displacement of thousands of Somali people. See Local Travel.
The FCO is unable to provide consular assistance in Somalia.
Take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before you travel.
