Facts about Djibouti
Official languages: French, Arabic, Somali, Afar
Capital: Djibouti
Area: 23,000 km²
Population: 740,528 residents
Population density: 32.20 residents per km²
Currency: DJF
Internet TLD: .dj
ISO codes: DJ, DJI, 262
The dialing code for Djibouti is +253
Flag of Djibouti
The flag of Djibouti, which was first used during the declaration of independence in 1977, is composed of two horizontal stripes in blue and green and a white wedge in the flagpole side. In addition, a red five-pointed star is placed in the white wedge. The flag is inspired by the flag of the People’s League for Independence, which prevailed in the struggles for independence from France. Djibouti was known as Somaliland in colonial times. The blue color of the upper stripe is typical of the Somali Issa, and the green color of the lower stripe represents the Muslim Afars. The white triangle traditionally symbolizes peace and the red star signifies the unity of the Djibouti nation.
Djibouti, a city-state with a desert as a hinterland, is located in East Africa on the strait between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. Mastered Arabic for centuries, it had been a French colony since the 19th century. It has been independent since 1977.
In relation to the size of the country, the country has wide access to the sea. At the moment enormous expansions of the port facilities are being built not least by investors from the Arabian Peninsula. With the expected completion in 2006, the country will have one of the largest container terminals in the region. Since Ethiopia does not have its own access to the sea, the landlocked country conducts a large part of its trade via Djibouti.
Other important economic factors are the railway line to Addis Ababa and the financial aid from France.
Biggest Cities of Djibouti by Population
Djibouti is a small country located in the Horn of Africa, with a population of over 921,000 people. The largest city in Djibouti is Djibouti City, which serves as the capital and has a population of over 600,000 people. This bustling city features some interesting attractions such as Lagon Bleu – a man-made lake that offers some great views of the city – or Central Market – one of the oldest markets in Africa where visitors can find a variety of items from local souvenirs to spices. Visitors to Djibouti City can also explore some fascinating neighborhoods like Balbala or Kebili where they can find some great eateries and cafes.
The second largest city in Djibouti is Ali Sabieh, which has around 70,000 inhabitants. This vibrant city contains some interesting attractions such as Lake Assal – one of the saltiest lakes on Earth – or Day Forest National Park – one of the few remaining areas of tropical dry forest in East Africa. Ali Sabieh also offers visitors some great opportunities for outdoor activities such as trekking or biking along Wadi Darar or visiting Lac Abbé where they can admire lush green landscapes while exploring its many trails. Finally, tourists can also visit Goda Mountains where they can find some unique species of birds and fish while admiring its beautiful scenery.
| # | City | Population | Latitude | Longitude |
| 1 | Djibouti, Djibouti | 624,002 | 11.589 | 43.145 |
| 2 | Ali Sabieh, Djibouti | 40,185 | 11.1558 | 42.7125 |
| 3 | Danan, Djibouti | 40,185 | 11.1833 | 42.9333 |
| 4 | Tadjourah, Djibouti | 22,304 | 11.7878 | 42.8822 |
| 5 | Obock, Djibouti | 17,887 | 11.9669 | 43.2883 |
| 6 | Dikhil, Djibouti | 12,154 | 11.1045 | 42.3697 |
| 7 | Arta, Djibouti | 6,136 | 11.5264 | 42.8519 |
Djibouti: Djibouti City
The capital is called Djibouti City or just Djibouti, just like the country. The city of Djibouti is right at the entrance to the Gulf of Tadjoura. There is also a port here that is particularly important for Ethiopia and its economy. There is also an international airport in Djibouti.
Many people live in the city of Djibouti, as more and more people are moving from the countryside to the cities. But many end up in the slums. The population is estimated to be around half a million. If you want to read more about Djibouti City, you can find more information under “Everyday Life”.