MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somali and Egyptian authorities on Saturday rejected social media reports claiming Somali passports had been suspended for travel to Egypt, saying flights and immigration procedures remain unchanged and Somali travelers are being processed as usual in Cairo.
EgyptAir, Egypt’s national carrier, said there has been no “suspension or restriction on the acceptance of Somali passports” and emphasized that “Somali passengers holding valid travel documents and the required entry permits can continue to travel to Cairo as usual.” Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Authority echoed the denial, calling the reports false and urging the public to rely on official channels.
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- Flights between Somalia and Egypt were operating normally as of Friday, officials said.
- EgyptAir continues to accept Somali passports with valid visas or entry permits.
- Somalia’s immigration authority says no new travel measures or restrictions are in place.
- Authorities caution travelers to verify claims via official sources before changing plans.
The wave of misinformation spread online in recent days prompted anxiety among Somali travelers planning to visit or transit through Egypt. One Somali passenger who flew to Cairo on Saturday told local media she experienced no difficulties and did not witness any Somali nationals facing issues upon arrival.
Officials in both countries stressed there has been no policy shift affecting Somali passport holders. Travel between Somalia and Egypt remains governed by existing visa and entry requirements, they said.
The denials come amid heightened sensitivity around international travel rules and the speed at which unverified claims can ripple through social networks. Somalia and Egypt maintain long-standing diplomatic and cultural ties, including education, politics, trade and security cooperation. Cairo is also a significant transit hub for East African travelers, making clarity around entry protocols especially consequential for students, medical travelers and families connecting through Egypt to other destinations.
In their statements, authorities urged travelers to seek confirmation from government agencies and airlines before altering itineraries. EgyptAir directed customers to its official platforms for the latest guidance, while Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Authority asked the public to avoid amplifying unverified posts that could trigger needless cancellations, financial loss or missed appointments.
What travelers should do now:
- Check entry requirements for Egypt directly through official government and airline websites.
- Confirm flight status and document requirements with your airline before departure.
- Carry a valid Somali passport and any required visas or permits for Egypt.
- Monitor updates from Somalia’s Immigration and Citizenship Authority and EgyptAir for any changes.
As of Sunday, officials said schedule and acceptance policies are normal, and Somali passport holders with valid documentation can travel to Egypt without new restrictions. Any reliable updates, they added, will be issued through official channels.
By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
