On December 18, 2025, important discussions unfolded in Khamiis as Fu’aad Axmed Nuux, the Minister of Aviation and Airport Development for Somaliland, met with members of the UK Parliament. This meeting, which gathered representatives from both houses of Parliament, aimed to address significant challenges posed by the newly implemented electronic visa (E-Visa) system enforced by the Somali government.
Minister Nuux emphasized the critical need for dialogue between the UK Parliament members and Somaliland officials. The discussions centered not only on travel issues but also on enhancing the air traffic connections between Somaliland and the United Kingdom. The introduction of the E-Visa system was identified as a notable barrier for Somaliland citizens, complicating their travel and raising concerns about the processes involved.
“We spoke to legislators about streamlining the travel process and overcoming the hurdles that have emerged for UK citizens traveling to Somaliland,” Minister Nuux stated. This remark highlights the intent to ease travel under the new visa restrictions, aiming to facilitate smoother journeys for both tourists and business travelers, thereby enhancing bilateral relations.
The delegation from the UK Parliament included members of the Somaliland Friends Group, a coalition sympathetic to Somaliland’s aspirations for recognition and development. Their efforts focus on advocating for Somaliland’s rights within the UK Parliament, often bringing pressing issues to the forefront of discussions. Their involvement underscores the growing interest and concern for Somaliland’s situation amidst evolving political landscapes.
The E-Visa system, introduced by the Somali government, has posed direct challenges for Somalilanders traveling from abroad. Both the Somali and Somaliland governments impose visa fees, complicating the travel landscape. It has been reported that many Somaliland residents have resorted to landing in neighboring countries and then crossing overland into Somaliland to circumvent the barriers posed by the visa system.
This meeting marked the first instance where Minister Nuux publicly addressed travel concerns following disruptions to the Somali visa regimen. Previously, frustrations surrounding the E-Visa led to temporary standstills, leaving travelers in limbo. However, Minister Nuux has expressed optimism regarding overcoming these visa-related challenges and restoring a more open framework for travel.
