Britain updates Somalia travel warning over clashes, border risks

Thursday May 14, 2026

Mogadishu (AX) — Britain has tightened its travel guidance for Somalia, urging its citizens to avoid nearly all travel to the country amid terrorism fears, armed clashes and an unsettled security climate.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office says against all travel to Somalia, including the eastern North Western State of Somalia regions of Togdheer, Sanaag and Sool. The department said violence has escalated in those areas in recent months and that conditions remain highly unstable.

It also advises against all but essential travel to the western North Western State of Somalia regions of Awdal, Maroodijeh and Sahil, including Boorama, Hargeisa and Berbera.

The updated warning reflects persistent insecurity across Somalia, where political strains, territorial disputes, militant attacks and clan-based fighting continue to disrupt movement and everyday life.

British officials told travelers to consult local authorities before going near border zones and to keep a close eye on guidance for Ethiopia, Kenya and Djibouti. The FCDO cautioned that land crossings can shut without notice and said anyone entering without the proper paperwork could be fined or detained.

It said the land border with Kenya is now closed following recent cross-border terrorist activity. The department also noted reports of foreign nationals being prevented from crossing from Djibouti into Somalia, even though that border remains open.

For the rest of Somalia, the FCDO continues to advise against all travel, pointing to ongoing fighting between rival factions in many parts of the country. According to the guidance, civilians have been killed in battles that frequently involve heavy weapons.

The advisory further states that travel insurance may be void if British nationals ignore FCDO warnings. Anyone who stays in Somalia, it says, does so at their own risk and should have an emergency plan that does not depend on assistance from the British government.

The warning comes as Somalia remains locked in insecurity, with government troops and allied forces battling al-Shabab, while North Western State of Somalia has also seen renewed unrest, especially in disputed eastern territories.