Mogadishu, Somalia (SONNA) – Somalia is witnessing a surge of foreign tourists as the country’s security situation improves and its attractions become more accessible.
According to the Ministry of Tourism, the number of foreign visitors to Somalia has increased by 50% in the past year, reaching over 10,000 in 2024. Most of the tourists come from Europe, especially Germany and Austria, as well as from neighboring countries like Kenya and Ethiopia.
One of the tourists, Dr. Heemo from Austria, said he was amazed by the changes he saw in Somalia since his first visit in 2013.
“The first time we came to Somalia, Mogadishu was not like this. Many things were different at that time. I did not see the National Theater, the museums, the hotels, the restaurants, the markets, the beaches, the parks, the monuments, the mosques, the schools, the hospitals, the roads, the bridges, the airports, the ports, the stadiums, the factories, the farms, the wildlife, the coral reefs, the islands, the culture, the history, the people, the peace, the progress, the potential, the hope, the future,” he said.
Dr. Heemo and his group of tourists visited various regions of Somalia, including Jubbaland, Middle Shabelle, Eyl, Bosaso and Mogadishu. He said he was impressed by the diversity and beauty of the country, as well as by the hospitality and friendliness of the locals.
“The big change that we have seen is two things. The first is that people are now willing and open to talk to foreigners and bring them closer. The other, the most important thing, is in terms of security. We feel that it has improved a lot, especially when we compare it to how it was before. We feel very safe and secure now,” he said.
The Ministry of Tourism said it is working to promote Somalia as a top destination for tourists, and to provide them with the best services and facilities. It also said it is collaborating with the Ministry of Information, Culture and Tourism of the South West State, which announced that it is planning to establish more game reserves and wildlife ranges in the country.
Somalia has a rich and diverse natural and cultural heritage, with many historical sites, beaches, waterfalls, mountain ranges and national parks. Some of the most popular attractions include the ancient cave paintings of Laas Geel, the coral reefs of Sa’ad ad-Din Island, the historic city of Baidoa, and the vibrant capital of Mogadishu.
