ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates (Horn post) United Arab Emirates has reportedly launched a diplomatic initiative aimed at encouraging additional countries to formally recognize Somaliland, signaling a potentially significant shift in regional diplomacy surrounding the self-declared republic in the Horn of Africa.
According to emerging reports, Emirati officials are engaging with governments in Eswatini, Argentina, Dominican Republic and Zambia as part of a broader diplomatic effort to expand international recognition for Somaliland.
The reports indicate that Abu Dhabi is actively lobbying the four countries to establish formal diplomatic recognition and deepen political engagement with Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but remains internationally unrecognized by the United Nations.
The UAE has steadily strengthened ties with Somaliland over the past decade through strategic investments, security cooperation and infrastructure projects, particularly involving the port city of Berbera along the Gulf of Aden.
Analysts say the reported Emirati diplomatic push reflects growing geopolitical competition in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea corridor, where Gulf states, global powers and regional actors are competing for influence over trade routes, ports and maritime security.
The development also comes amid broader international discussions regarding Somaliland’s diplomatic status following Israel’s recognition of Somaliland in late 2025 and Taiwan’s expanding cooperation with Hargeisa.
Neither Emirati authorities nor the governments mentioned in the reports have publicly confirmed the alleged recognition initiative.
Prepared by:
Horn post staff
