Djibouti: COVID-19 restrictions remain largely unchanged as of April 27 /update 14

Djibouti maintaining limited COVID-19-related restrictions as of April 27. International flights operating.

Event

As of April 27, the COVID-19 restrictions in effect in Djibouti remain largely unchanged from those in place during late February. Limited international travel and domestic business restrictions are in force. Land borders are open, including the crossings at Loyada, Galile, Galafi, and Balho. International rail services at Djibouti City's Nagad Train Station are operating, though rail transport between Djibouti and Addis Ababa remains restricted to freight shipments. Ambouli International Airport (JIB) is operational for commercial passenger travel; the ports of Tadjourah and Obock are open for maritime travel.

All passengers traveling to Djibouti must produce a certificate issued in their country of departure proving that they have tested negative for COVID-19 using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken within 72 hours before departure and not more than 120 hours before their arrival in Djibouti. All passengers entering Djibouti will also be tested for COVID-19 upon arrival and must wait at the port of entry until the results become available (approximately four hours). Those who test positive will enter government isolation centers at their own expense; those who test negative will be free to proceed to their accommodations. Children below the age of 11 are exempt from the COVID-19 test.

Domestically, most businesses are operating; however, social distancing measures and other requirements aimed at preventing the further spread of COVID-19 remain in force. Protective facemasks are mandatory in public places. Public gatherings of more than 10 people remain prohibited. Public transport has resumed operation, albeit with limitations in place on the number of passengers allowed on buses, trains, and other public transport vehicles. Retail shops, grocery stores, and places of worship have reopened. Hotels, restaurants, and leisure and amusement sites are operating, as are conference venues, event halls, and cinemas. Schools have resumed in-person classes.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments. Plan for queues and delays at available shopping centers.