The Somali government has reassured the public that the recent high-level invitation extended by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Somaliland President Abdirahman Irro will not affect Somalia’s diplomatic relationship with the UAE.
The Somali Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ali Mohamed Omar, downplayed concerns, emphasizing that the relationship with the UAE is crucial, particularly for trade and security. He stressed that the UAE has been a key partner in supporting Somalia’s military capabilities and trade relations, asserting that political tensions will not disrupt this cooperation.
“The UAE is one of the first nations to support Somalia in its security efforts and has always been a reliable partner in trade and military support,” said Minister Ali Balcad. “Historically, the UAE provided refuge to many Somalis during the country’s conflict, and it continues to be a vital commercial hub for Somalia’s business community.”
He further explained that the UAE’s continued support in strengthening Somalia’s military forces highlights the depth of the bilateral relationship. “Our trade ties with the UAE are extensive, and most of Somalia’s major businesses are rooted in the UAE,” Balcad noted.
The controversy stems from President Irro’s call at the summit for international recognition of Somaliland’s independence, a stance that Somalia has consistently opposed. Following the event, Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi warned that Somalia would consider actions against the UAE for hosting Irro.
The Deputy Minister’s comments come as President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud embarked on an unannounced trip to the UAE on Monday. While the official purpose of the visit remains unclear, government sources suggest the trip may involve discussions on diplomatic matters and secure funding for Somalia’s security services. The trip comes on the heels of a U.S. decision to reduce funding to Somalia, including cuts to the Danab special forces, a key counter-terrorism unit trained with U.S. support.
Earlier in February 2025, Somalia secured a major debt relief deal with the Abu Dhabi Development Fund (ADFD) to settle a $257 million debt linked to the Juba Sugar Factory project. This agreement was signed during the recent World Government Summit.
UAE-Somaliland relations have been expanding, with the UAE becoming Somaliland’s largest investor. President Irro used his first official trip to the UAE in January 2025 to strengthen these ties. During the visit, the UAE government dispatched a special plane to transport Irro and his delegation, signaling the importance of their growing partnership. As a result, investments have poured into Somaliland’s infrastructure, including the expansion of the Berbera Port under DP World’s management, and significant improvements to key transport routes.
President Irro’s visit to Dubai in February 2025 further solidified this relationship, with discussions focused on security and economic cooperation. Specifically, the UAE has been instrumental in supporting Somaliland’s port development and infrastructure projects.
Despite the political tensions, Minister Ali Balcad said that Somalia’s relationship with the UAE, especially in terms of trade and security, remains strong.