Somaliland is a self-declared independent state located in the Horn of Africa.

It unilaterally separated from Somalia in 1991 but lacks international recognition.

The region maintains its own government, currency (Somaliland shilling), and military, and is known for relative stability compared to southern Somalia.

Somaliland is situated in the Horn of Africa, bordered by Djibouti to the west, Ethiopia to the south, and Somalia to the east.

It has a coastline along the Gulf of Aden to the north.

Key geographic coordinates range from approximately 8°N to 11°N latitude and 43°E to 49°E longitude.

Somaliland is not internationally recognized by any United Nations member state.

Despite operating as a de facto independent state since 1991, recognition is blocked by political issues and support for Somalia's territorial integrity.

It has its own constitution, elections, and foreign relations with some countries.

The capital city of Somaliland is Hargeisa.

As the largest city and administrative hub, it hosts key government institutions, markets, and airports.

Hargeisa has a population of about 1 million people and serves as the economic and cultural center.

The primary language is Somali, spoken as the mother tongue by the majority population.

Arabic is used for religious purposes, education, and official documents.

English is also taught in schools and used in business and governance, making it a functional secondary language.

Somaliland uses its own currency called the Somaliland shilling.

It is issued by the Bank of Somaliland and informally pegged to the US dollar.

Transactions often involve both currencies, with exchange rates fluctuating based on market demand.

The estimated population of Somaliland is around 3.5 to 4 million people.

Most are ethnic Somalis, distributed across clans and urban centers like Hargeisa, Berbera, and Burao.

Population growth is influenced by high birth rates and remigration from diaspora communities.

Travel to Somaliland requires caution due to occasional security risks.

Hargeisa is relatively stable, but visitors should monitor advisories, avoid border areas, and use local guides.

Essential precautions include vaccinations, registration with authorities, and carrying copies of travel documents.

Somaliland's economy relies on livestock exports (e.g., goats and sheep), remittances from overseas Somalis, and trade through Berbera port.

Other sectors include agriculture (limited by arid climate), fishing, mining, and emerging services like telecommunications.

Unemployment is high, driving informal economy growth.

Yes, Somaliland issues visas to foreign visitors.

Applicants can apply at representative offices in countries like Ethiopia or the UK, or via arrival at Hargeisa Egal International Airport.

Requirements include a valid passport, application form, fee, and sometimes an invitation letter from a local sponsor.

Somaliland has a hybrid democratic system with a president as head of state and a bicameral parliament.

The parliament includes the elected House of Representatives and the Guurti (Council of Elders).

Elections are held regularly, but challenges include clan-based politics and limited recognition hindering foreign aid.

Somaliland experiences a predominantly arid to semi-arid climate with low rainfall and high temperatures year-round.

Coastal areas along the Gulf of Aden are slightly cooler than inland regions.

Droughts are common, impacting agriculture and water resources; rainy seasons occur irregularly, typically around April-June and October-November.