Djibouti

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

We currently advise that all New Zealanders do not travel overseas at this time due to the outbreak of COVID-19, associated health risks and widespread travel restrictions.

The global situation remains complex and rapidly changing. International travel can be complicated with fewer international flights available and disruptions to transit routes and hubs. Any destination could experience a sudden increase in cases of COVID-19 and a heightened risk to travellers of contracting the virus. Strict health measures and movement restrictions could be imposed suddenly. Should you decide to travel despite our advice, be prepared to remain overseas longer than you intended. You should also be aware that your travel insurance may not cover travel disruption or medical expenses.

Managed Isolation and Quarantine in New Zealand
All travellers to New Zealand must undertake 14 days of government-provided managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ). Detailed information about MIQ requirements in New Zealand can be found at www.miq.govt.nz.

Pre-departure testing requirements for travellers to New Zealand
All travellers to New Zealand (excluding those from Antarctica, Australia and most Pacific Islands) must show evidence of a negative COVID-19 test result before departure. Detailed information about pre-departure testing requirements can be found on the Unite Against Covid-19 website here.

We recognise that some New Zealanders do continue to live and travel overseas. We continue to provide destination-specific advice about other safety and security risks below.

Djibouti

Terrorism
There is an ongoing threat from terrorism in Djibouti. The Somalia-based terrorist group Al-Shabaab has issued public threats against Djibouti. In May 2014, they claimed responsibility for a suicide bombing at La Chaumiere restaurant in Djibouti city, which killed 3 and injured many more, including foreign nationals. Past attacks have resulted in foreign fatalities and the possibility of future indiscriminate attacks, particularly in areas frequented by foreigners, cannot be discounted.

New Zealanders in Djibouti are advised to be security conscious at all times, monitor the media, and follow any instructions and restrictions issued by the local authorities. Particular care should be taken in crowded and public places and in areas known to be frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. Remain vigilant.

Civil unrest
Demonstrations occur from time to time in Djibouti, mostly linked to domestic political developments. New Zealanders should avoid large crowds and public demonstrations as they have the potential to turn violent.

Crime
Petty crime such as bag snatching and pickpocketing occurs in Djibouti and is common in tourist areas. We advise New Zealanders to be alert to their surroundings at all times and take steps to safeguard and secure their personal belongings. Avoid wearing or displaying items that appear valuable, such as electronic devices and jewellery and walking and travelling at night, particularly to isolated areas.

Piracy
Piracy remains a significant problem in the coastal areas of Djibouti. Attacks against all forms of shipping are common in and around Djibouti’s waters and the Gulf of Aden. Mariners are strongly advised to take appropriate precautionary measures in these waters. For more information view the International Maritime Bureau’s piracy report.

General travel advice
There is a danger from unexploded landmines Djibouti along the border with Eritrea. Mined areas may be unmarked. New Zealanders are advised not to stray off well used roads and paths in rural areas.

New Zealanders are advised to respect religious, social and cultural traditions in Djibouti to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour.

Photography of any official infrastructure is prohibited, and could result in detention. If in doubt, don’t take a picture.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Djibouti should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders in Djibouti are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

The New Zealand Embassy Addis Ababa, Ethiopia is accredited to Djibouti

Street Address Bole Sub City, Woreda 09, House No 111, Behind Atlas Hotel/close to Shala Park, (Namibia Street), Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Postal Address New Zealand Embassy, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Private Bag 18-901 Wellington Mail Centre 5045, Wellington Telephone +251-11-515-1269 Fax +251-11-552-6115 Email aue@mfat.govt.nz Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/ethiopia Hours Monday – Friday, 9am-12pm & 1pm-4pm Note In an emergency or if you require urgent assistance, please call the Embassy on +251 11 515 1269. Outside of business hours you will be redirected to an after-hours duty service.

See our regional advice for Africa

MIL OSI