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A UK royal, a key British MP, and Somaliland’s president at one table. This is diplomacy without permission — and it’s getting noticed.
DUBAI — President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi of the Republic of Somaliland and the delegation accompanying him in the United Arab Emirates attended an official state dinner in Dubai on Tuesday evening, marking another high-profile diplomatic moment for Somaliland on the international stage.
The dinner was attended by Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh, brother of King Charles III, underscoring the level of international engagement surrounding the Somaliland delegation during its working visit to the UAE.
Officials described the event as a reflection of the growing diplomatic visibility and international respect Somaliland is cultivating, particularly with longstanding partners such as the United Kingdom. Somaliland and Britain share deep historical ties dating back to the British Somaliland Protectorate era, a legacy that continues to shape political and social engagement between the two sides.
Also in attendance was Sir Gavin Williamson, a member of the UK House of Commons and one of the most vocal supporters of Somaliland’s quest for international recognition. Williamson has repeatedly raised Somaliland’s case in British and international political forums and is regarded in Hargeisa as a key ally.
President Abdullahi used the occasion to express his appreciation to Williamson for what he described as consistent and principled support for Somaliland and its people. According to Somaliland officials, the president emphasized the importance of allies who continue to advocate for Somaliland’s democratic record, stability, and right to self-determination.
Discussions during the event highlighted the shared interest in strengthening cooperation across governance, development, security, and people-to-people relations. Participants also reaffirmed a mutual commitment to dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and international cooperation as foundations for future engagement.
The dinner forms part of a broader diplomatic push by Somaliland’s leadership during the UAE visit, as President Abdullahi seeks to expand international partnerships and reinforce Somaliland’s image as a stable, responsible political actor in the Horn of Africa.
Officials said the engagement once again demonstrated Somaliland’s growing confidence and effectiveness in international diplomacy, particularly in strengthening ties with traditional partners such as the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
