Located in the Horn of Africa, Djibouti’s capital has been undergoing rapid transformation for several years. A strategic port, administrative center, and economic engine of the country, the city today illustrates the convergence of cultural heritage and modernization ambitions.
Djibouti City, the capital of the Republic of Djibouti, is home to more than 60% of the country’s population. Situated on the shores of the strategic Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, the city witnesses one of the world’s busiest maritime flows every day. Here, at the crossroads of the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean, cargo ships and merchant vessels connect Africa, Europe, and Asia, capturing nearly 10% of global maritime trade, according to official data.
“The Port of Djibouti corridors represent a key driver of economic growth and territorial integration for our country.”
Aboubaker Omar Hadi, Chairman of the Ports and Free Zones Authority – Djibouti
Thanks to its modern port infrastructure, Djibouti has established itself as an essential hub for its large neighbor, Ethiopia. Landlocked, this country of over 1.18 million inhabitants relies on Djibouti ports for nearly 90% of its foreign trade. In the capital, growth is evident: the population increases by 3 to 4% annually, driven by rural exodus and the economic opportunities linked to port and logistics activities, which account for over 70% of the country’s GDP.
“The inauguration of the road network demonstrates our collective commitment to regional development, improving the living conditions of our citizens, and fostering the city’s growth.”
Aboubaker Omar Hadi, Chairman of the Ports and Free Zones Authority – Djibouti
To support this growth, the authorities are developing major projects within the framework of Vision Djibouti 2035, while preserving the heritage of Djibouti City, such as the Hamoudi Mosque (1897-1906), blending traditions and economic ambitions.
