Monday March 10, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud traveled to the United Arab Emirates on Monday in an unannounced visit, just days after his government protested the UAE’s invitation of Somaliland leader Abdirahman Irro to the World Government Summit in Dubai.
The official purpose of Mohamud’s trip remains unclear, but some Cabinet members have praised Abu Dhabi’s role in strengthening Somalia’s security, hinting at a possible diplomatic agenda.
Last month, Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi warned that Mogadishu would take action against the UAE over its decision to host Irro at the high-profile summit. During the event, the Somaliland president called on the international community to recognize the region’s independence.
According to media reports, Mohamud had been expected to travel to the frontlines in the Middle Shabelle region, where Somali forces are engaged in military operations against Al-Shabaab. Since last month, the federal government, with support from international partners, has conducted air and ground offensives in the region.