Essential cover
Having the right Djibouti insurance is an important part of your planning if you intend to visit, stay or do business in this very poor country. Though largely peaceful, be aware that a border dispute with Eritrea means you should check FCDO advice with regard to travel here. The high levels of poverty have led to an increase in the crime rate, so it’s wise not to take chances with your insurance cover.
For such a small country, Djibouti offers a wide range of adventures. From the scorched earth of its deserts to the green of the Goda Mountains, Djibouti is a land of contrasts and has a great deal to offer the visitor. The country is stable, but according to the FCDO, terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Djibouti, and could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
The people of Djibouti are poor and street crime is on the rise. Be vigilant in shopping areas, hotels, restaurants and nightclubs – and don’t show obvious signs of wealth. Ensure that your Djibouti insurance includes adequate cover for theft and loss of belongings.
Avoid walking alone after dark and avoid visiting the isolated beaches of Dorale and Khor Ambado late in the afternoon. Always carry some identification (a certified true copy of your passport ID page is best).
Walking and driving in the capital can be hazardous, especially after dark. The streets are narrow, poorly lit and badly maintained. Local drivers and pedestrians – as well as roaming livestock – pose additional risks. Police roadblocks and railway crossings can be difficult to see after dark. Having the right cover against road and traffic accidents is a vital aspect of your Djibouti insurance.
Outside the capital, stay on paved roads, particularly in the districts of Tadjourah, Obock and Ali Sabieh, where mines have been found in the past. Make sure you have sufficient fuel in reserve when travelling long distances. Avoid the border areas with Eritrea if at all possible – ensure you have high risk insurance covering bandit attack and kidnapping if your work takes you here.
Your Djibouti insurance should also make adequate provision for health related cover, including medical evacuation in case of serious illness or accident. Medical facilities in Djibouti are limited and many medicines are unavailable. Cholera is common, so only drink boiled or bottled water.
In the coastal waters of Djibouti, in the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean, piracy is a threat. All mariners should keep up to date with advice from the Maritime Security Centre and follow the Best Management Practise for the Gulf of Aden and off Somalia published by the International Maritime Bureau. Maritime Security insurance can be arranged for crews and cargoes.
The Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in the UK regularly updates its advice to British travellers about immediate risks.