On 12 January 2026, the Federal Government of Somalia announced a major diplomatic decision: the complete severance of relations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The decision, approved by the Council of Ministers, included the cancellation of all existing agreements between Somalia and the UAE, covering federal institutions as well as regional administrations within the country.
This move represents a significant turning point in Somalia’s foreign relations and reflects long-standing tensions between Mogadishu and Abu Dhabi over issues of sovereignty, political interference, and security cooperation.
The Official Decision and Its Immediate Consequences
In an official statement released on Monday afternoon, the Somali government confirmed that all UAE-linked activities in the cities of Berbera, Bosaso, and Kismayo would be suspended with immediate effect. These locations have long been central to Emirati commercial and security operations, particularly in relation to ports, logistics, and military cooperation.
The Council of Ministers stated that the decision was based on “credible reports and strong evidence” indicating actions that undermine Somalia’s sovereignty, national unity, and political independence. According to the statement, these actions left the government with no alternative but to take decisive measures in defense of the country’s constitutional authority.
Core Causes of the Dispute
The diplomatic fallout between Somalia and the UAE did not emerge overnight. It is rooted in several interconnected issues that have strained relations for years.
One of the central points of contention has been allegations of political interference. Somali authorities have repeatedly accused the UAE of engaging directly with federal member states without the consent or coordination of the federal government. Mogadishu has argued that such actions weaken the federal system, bypass constitutional frameworks, and threaten national unity.
Security cooperation has also been a sensitive issue. While the UAE has played a role in training and supporting Somali security forces, the Somali government has expressed concern over the lack of transparency surrounding certain military activities, including the movement of personnel and equipment through ports and airports without federal authorization.
Allegations Involving Airports and Airspace
Tensions escalated further following recent allegations related to the unauthorized use of Somali airspace and airports. Somali authorities claimed that Emirati-linked flights facilitated the travel of a politically sensitive individual without official clearance from the federal government.
The Somali Immigration and Citizenship Agency confirmed that an urgent investigation had been launched in coordination with other national institutions. Officials warned that if such actions were verified, they would constitute a serious violation of Somalia’s sovereignty and immigration laws.
“These actions, if confirmed, represent an unacceptable breach of Somali law and national authority,” a government statement noted, emphasizing that no foreign power has the right to conduct unilateral operations on Somali territory.
UAE Activities in Somalia: A Complex Relationship
Over the past decade, the UAE has maintained a strong presence in Somalia across multiple sectors. Economically, Emirati companies—most notably DP World—have invested heavily in port infrastructure. DP World currently manages the Port of Berbera, a project reportedly valued at over $440 million, making it one of the largest foreign investments in Somalia’s logistics sector.
In addition, the UAE has been active in humanitarian assistance, funding projects related to drought relief, flood response, healthcare, education, and water infrastructure. These initiatives have provided tangible benefits to local communities, particularly in regions affected by conflict and climate-related disasters.
However, Somali officials argue that economic and humanitarian contributions do not justify actions that bypass federal authority or compromise national sovereignty.
Historical Context: Not the First Breakdown
This is not the first time relations between Somalia and the UAE have deteriorated. In 2018, Somalia suspended several Emirati-led programs following disputes over security cooperation and allegations of political interference. While relations later stabilized to some extent, underlying tensions were never fully resolved.
The latest decision suggests that accumulated grievances, combined with recent developments, pushed the Somali government to take a more definitive and far-reaching stance.
Implementation and International Notification
The Council of Ministers instructed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to formally notify the UAE of the decision and to coordinate its implementation. The ministry was also tasked with informing international and regional partners, including the African Union and the United Nations.
The government emphasized that the decision aligns with Somalia’s constitutional rights and its responsibility to safeguard national interests. At the same time, officials reiterated Somalia’s openness to international cooperation—provided it is based on mutual respect, recognition of sovereignty, and adherence to international law.
A Message to the International Community
Despite the severity of the decision, Somalia made it clear that it is not withdrawing from global engagement. Rather, the government framed the move as a reaffirmation of its commitment to state sovereignty and lawful international relations.
“This decision was taken in full consideration of Somalia’s national interests,” the statement concluded, stressing that future partnerships must respect Somalia’s independence, unity, and constitutional order.
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