By Goth Mohamed Goth
HARGEISA, Somaliland – In a significant boost to its aviation and economic infrastructure, the Republic of Somaliland has signed a landmark $70 million agreement to modernize Egal International Airport in its capital, Hargeisa. The deal, announced by Presidential Spokesperson Eng. Hussein Adan Cige (Deyr), represents the largest single investment in the country’s civil aviation history and highlights Somaliland’s increasing engagement with global business partners.
The agreement was finalized at the Dubai International Financial Center between Somaliland’s Minister of Civil Aviation, Hon. Fu’ad Ahmed Nuh, and representatives from the International Maharat Investment Company, a Dubai-based firm specializing in infrastructure development.
The ambitious project aims to comprehensively upgrade the airport’s facilities. Planned improvements include extending runways, constructing new passenger terminals, and installing enhanced security and modern navigational systems. These upgrades are designed to accommodate larger aircraft, significantly increase passenger capacity, and position Hargeisa as a key gateway for regional trade and tourism in the Horn of Africa.
“This investment is a game-changer for Somaliland’s economy,” said Eng. Deyr in a statement. “It reflects our unwavering commitment to developing world-class infrastructure and forging deeper ties with the international community. Somaliland is open for business, ready for investment, and eager for meaningful global cooperation.”
The partnership with Maharat, a company with a portfolio of projects across the Middle East and Africa, is seen as a vote of confidence in Somaliland’s stable governance and business-friendly environment. Minister Nuh stated during the signing ceremony that the project would “not only modernize our skies but also elevate Somaliland’s profile on the global stage.”
Industry experts predict the modernized airport could handle up to one million passengers annually by 2030, a substantial increase from the current annual traffic of approximately 200,000. The enhancements are also expected to pave the way for direct flights to major international hubs like Dubai, Istanbul, and Addis Ababa, further integrating Somaliland into global economic and supply chains.
With construction scheduled to begin in early 2026, this development marks a new chapter in Somaliland’s pursuit of economic self-sufficiency and broader international recognition.
