Hargeisa is the capital city of the Republic of Somaliland
Hargeisa is the capital of the Republic of Somaliland and a business traveler’s destination in East Africa. It is a peaceful and friendly city with just under a million inhabitants. Although there is very little tourism, the city has good transportation links with other East African cities, making it a suitable destination for business travelers.
To get to Hargeisa, visitors can fly into Hargeisa International Airport, which connects the city to various locations in East Africa, including Addis Ababa, Djibouti, Dubai, Mogadishu, and Nairobi. Visitors should note that a Somaliland visa is required for foreign travelers and can be obtained at the Somaliland representative offices in Addis Ababa or London. It is advisable to have your onward travel plans arranged and visas in hand before traveling to Hargeisa, as there is very little diplomatic representation in the city.
Once in Hargeisa, business travelers can use the informal shared bus service to get around the city, which costs 1,500 Somaliland shillings per journey.
Taxis can also be booked through hotels, but they are relatively expensive. Visitors should note that women must wear long dresses or skirts to the ankle and must cover their hair and upper arms at all times, while men should avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless t-shirts.
While in Hargeisa, business travelers can stay connected through the city’s Internet access available at the airport departure lounge and various hotels. Business meetings can be arranged in the hotels or restaurants, which serve traditional Somali cuisine and international dishes. The city does not have a postal service, but DHL provides courier services.
In conclusion, Hargeisa is a peaceful and friendly city that offers good transportation links and a suitable environment for business travelers. Visitors should have their visas and onward travel plans arranged in advance and should follow the cultural dress code to avoid offending locals.
Linked to Hargeisa is the port city of Berbera with the Berbera Economic Zone (BEZ)
Modelled on Jebel Ali Free Zone (Jafza), DP World’s flagship project in Dubai, the BEZ will provide a conducive and competitive environment for investment and trade through a range of fiscal and non-fiscal incentives, including exemption from corporate tax, duty free storage of goods, 100% foreign ownership as well as the ability to operate through branches of foreign companies. One distinctive advantage that the BEZ will offer to its customers is the commercial benefit of forming part of DP World’s global portfolio of parks and economic zones. They can also benefit from the unique Jafza Incubation Centre offering which will enable BEZ customers to set up their business in Jafza at very competitive costs.
Berbera City and Berbera Economic Zone (BEZ)
Berbera is a coastal city in the Republic of Somaliland, situated on the Gulf of Aden.
While it may not be as well-known as some of the other cities in the region, it is an important economic hub with a rich history and plenty to offer business travelers.
Get in:
The most convenient way to reach Berbera is by air, with Berbera International Airport serving as the main point of entry. The airport has direct flights to Hargeisa, the capital of Somaliland, as well as to other destinations in the region. Private charter flights are also available.
Another option is to drive to Berbera from Hargeisa, which takes around 4-5 hours. While the road conditions can be challenging, it’s a scenic journey with stunning views of the countryside.
Visas are required for foreign travelers and can be obtained at Somaliland’s representative offices in Addis Ababa or London.
Get around:
In Berbera, the most common mode of transportation is by car, either through hiring a taxi or renting a vehicle. It’s also possible to get around on foot, as many of the city’s key sites and attractions are located within walking distance of each other.
See and Do:
Berbera’s most famous attraction is undoubtedly its stunning coastline, which stretches for miles along the Gulf of Aden. The city’s beaches are a great place to relax and unwind after a day of meetings or business activities. Some popular beaches include Berbera Beach, Barawa Beach, and Wadi Berbera.
For history buffs, the city’s Old Town area is a must-visit. This area contains many historic buildings and landmarks, including the Ottoman fort, the Sheikh Sufi Mosque, and the Berbera Museum.
For business travelers, the Berbera Free Zone is a key destination. This special economic zone offers a range of investment opportunities and incentives, and is home to many companies and businesses operating in the region.
Stay and Eat:
Berbera has a range of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Some popular options include the Mansoor Hotel, the Damal Hotel, and the Oriental Hotel.
When it comes to dining options, Berbera has plenty of local restaurants serving up traditional Somali cuisine, as well as international options. Some popular spots include the Berbera Beach Restaurant, the Oriental Hotel Restaurant, and the Al-Farah Restaurant.
Safety:
While Berbera is generally considered a safe destination, it’s always a good idea to take precautions when traveling in unfamiliar surroundings. Be sure to keep your valuables secure and avoid traveling alone at night.