Somaliland President Appreciates UAE’s Continued Support

[Deeq A.]

The President of the Republic of Somaliland, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro, has expressed his gratitude for the continuous support of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) towards Somaliland.

He emphasized his commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in economic development and various sectors of progress between the two nations.

President Irro made these remarks during an interview with the UAE-based WAM news agency, while attending the World Governments Summit 2025 in Dubai. He praised the UAE’s investment role, especially DP World, which has played a significant part in improving Somaliland’s infrastructure, transforming Berbera Port into a strategic trade hub that connects Somaliland with neighboring countries.

The President described DP World’s investment in Berbera Port as extending beyond port development, highlighting the establishment of the Berbera Free Zone and the Berbera Trade Corridor connecting Ethiopia. These projects have boosted economic ties between Somaliland and Ethiopia, a country with a population of nearly 134 million people. This has also made Berbera a key regional trade center, enhancing cross-border transportation.

Regarding hospitals in Berbera and Burco funded by the UAE, the President affirmed that these medical facilities would significantly improve healthcare services in Somaliland.

Additionally, President Irro highlighted Somaliland’s livestock potential, stating that if properly invested, Somaliland could supply meat to Gulf countries and the wider region. Somaliland’s livestock population is estimated at between 40 to 50 million, and nearly 4 million animals are exported to Saudi Arabia during the Hajj season each year.

Qaran News