Hargeisa, Somaliland — President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro of Somaliland has returned home after what officials describe as a highly productive working visit to the United Arab Emirates, where he combined diplomatic outreach with engagement from Somaliland’s private sector and diaspora community.
The President’s trip included participation in the Africa Debate Conference in Dubai, a major forum that brought together policymakers, economists, and investors from across the continent and beyond to discuss Africa’s shifting geopolitical and economic trajectory. According to sources close to the delegation, President Irro used the platform to advocate for Somaliland’s democratic credentials and growing potential as a gateway for trade and stability in the Horn of Africa.
Outside the conference halls, the President met with influential Somaliland business leaders based in the UAE, many of whom have played a pivotal role in sustaining investment flows back home. Discussions focused on scaling up key sectors such as energy, logistics, and infrastructure, as well as widening opportunities for diaspora-led entrepreneurship.
Members of the Somaliland community in the UAE welcomed the President warmly, with several attendees remarking on his accessibility and emphasis on unity. A senior aide said the meetings were “not just ceremonial,” adding that concrete proposals were tabled regarding joint ventures, skills transfer, and philanthropic initiatives.
In parallel, President Irro continued his diplomatic outreach, holding a series of talks with senior Emirati officials and representatives from other nations operating in the Gulf. Though details of those engagements were not immediately disclosed, officials confirmed that the discussions touched on cooperation in trade, security, and regional connectivity.
Before departing Dubai, President Irro reportedly reiterated Somaliland’s readiness to build constructive partnerships with nations that value peace, cooperation, and mutual development.
His return marks the beginning of what many expect to be an intensive follow-up phase. Government sources indicated that several of the discussions held in the UAE are expected to transition into formal agreements or investment missions in the coming weeks.
For now, the message from the presidency is clear: Somaliland is widening its diplomatic footprint — and looking to match it with tangible economic results.