Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has reopened its visa services at its embassy in Mogadishu after 30 years. UAE Ambassador to Somalia, Ahmed Juma Al-Rumaithi, inaugurated the consular section to issue visas for Somali citizens traveling to Dubai for business.

“It was decided to open the visa center to serve the citizens of the Republic of Somalia to facilitate the procedures required to obtain all types of entry visas to the country. There is also another section in the center, which serves the certification of documents and clients’ documents,” said Al-Rumaithi during the ceremony.

Facilitating Travel for Somalis

Previously, Somali citizens faced significant challenges in obtaining UAE visas, and used to travel to neighboring countries for the process. The new visa center aimed to streamline this procedure and enhance bilateral relations.

Bilateral Relations and Economic Cooperation

This development follows Somalia’s executive council approving a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UAE’s Abu Dhabi Ports Group focused on fisheries and the blue economy.

Last week, Ambassador Al-Rumaithi met with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to discuss strengthening bilateral relations and security cooperation.

The reopening of the UAE visa center in Mogadishu marks a significant step in fostering closer ties and facilitating business and travel between the two nations.