Somaliland President Abdirahman Irro embarks on first official visit to UAE

Somaliland President Abdirahman Irro embarks on first official visit to UAE

Source: Hiiraan Online, Sunday January 26, 2025

Hargeisa (HOL) – Somaliland President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro departed on Sunday morning for his first international trip to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) since assuming office in November 2024. 

The UAE government dispatched a special plane to transport President Irro and his delegation, underscoring the close ties between Somaliland and the Gulf nation.

The UAE has been a longstanding ally of Somaliland, particularly during the tenure of the former ruling Kulmiye party. Its investments in Somaliland have totalled hundreds of millions of dollars, including funding for the reconstruction of the Port of Berbera, the modernization of Berbera Airport, and the development of the vital road connecting Berbera to the commercial hub of Wajale. 

President Irro, who initially opposed DP World’s investment in the Port of Berbera, citing concerns over its potential economic benefits, has since shifted his stance. The port’s expansion under DP World’s management has reportedly changed his perspective on its strategic importance to Somaliland’s economy. 

The UAE is among the countries that maintain representative offices in Hargeisa, while Somaliland also operates a diplomatic office in the UAE. However, details of the president’s agenda remain undisclosed.