Somaliland and the UAE formalize a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, including a UAE embassy in Hargeisa, new airports, military training, and a $3 billion railway connecting Berbera to Ethiopia.
Somaliland and the United Arab Emirates have elevated their diplomatic relations into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, marking a new era of economic, security, and infrastructure cooperation. This major breakthrough cements the UAE’s long-term engagement in Somaliland and strengthens the latter’s regional position.
As part of the agreement, the UAE will upgrade its diplomatic office in Hargeisa to a full embassy, a significant move that enhances Somaliland’s international standing. The diplomatic shift signifies increased political recognition and deeper bilateral engagement beyond trade and infrastructure.
In a transformative step for Somaliland’s economy, the UAE has committed to a $3 billion railway linking the Port of Berbera to Ethiopia, reinforcing Berbera’s status as a vital regional trade hub. This railway will enhance Ethiopia’s access to the sea, positioning Somaliland as a critical transit route for the landlocked nation’s economy. Additionally, three new airports are set to be built in Hargeisa, Borama, and Burco, further boosting regional connectivity and commercial aviation.
On the security front, the UAE will train 15,000 personnel from Somaliland’s National Armed Forces, Police, and Intelligence services. The partnership also includes the establishment of a new naval base in Berbera, which will be jointly operated by the Republic of Somaliland Navy (RSL) and the UAE. This move solidifies Berbera’s role as a key strategic port for regional maritime security and underscores the UAE’s broader ambitions in the Horn of Africa.
A total of 11 bilateral agreements and 5 Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) have been signed, covering key sectors such as trade, logistics, banking, agriculture, and cultural exchange. These agreements set the framework for deeper economic integration, increased foreign direct investment, and enhanced security cooperation.
With a press conference scheduled for Thursday, January 30, 2025, further details are expected to be unveiled regarding the specifics of these agreements. This landmark partnership between Somaliland and the UAE is poised to reshape the region’s geopolitical and economic landscape, reinforcing Somaliland’s strategic importance in the Horn of Africa.
