The UAE has become one of Somalia’s most significant security and development partners, playing a critical role in rebuilding the Somali National Army (SNA), enhancing maritime security, and supporting regional stability by huge counterterrorism efforts.
At a time when the Somali government continues its battle against the Al-Shabaab insurgency, the UAE’s involvement is increasingly viewed as a cornerstone in shaping the country’s future.
UAE’s Counterterrorism Efforts Enhance Security All Over Somalia
The UAE has been active in Somalia for over a decade, investing in military training, counterterrorism efforts, and infrastructure development.
Since 2010, the UAE has particularly strengthened its presence in Puntland, where it invested heavily in building and training the Puntland Maritime Police Force (PMPF) and establishing a large base near the strategic port city of Bosaso.
This investment has been crucial in countering both Al-Shabaab and ISIS-linked militants, while also ensuring safer waters against piracy in the Gulf of Aden.
Jubaland and Somaliland
In addition to Puntland, the UAE has expanded cooperation with Jubaland and Somaliland, providing military vehicles, intelligence training, and logistical support.
Through its partnership with DP World, the UAE has upgraded and managed key Somali ports such as Berbera and Bosaso, giving these regions a much-needed economic boost while simultaneously securing critical trade routes.
UAE’s Counterterrorism Efforts: Military Training
The UAE began officially training units of the Somali National Army in 2014, focusing on building disciplined, professional forces capable of countering Al-Shabaab.
Although the program faced interruptions—most recently after the deadly February 2024 attack on General Gordon Camp in Mogadishu that killed four Emirati officers—the UAE has continued to show commitment to strengthening Somali forces.
Regional Strategy
Beyond training inside Somalia, the UAE has also funded Somali soldiers’ training in Egypt, Uganda, Djibouti, and Eritrea as part of a regional strategy to professionalize Somali security institutions.
Some of these trained units, including specialized military police, have made big counterterrorism efforts in Mogadishu.
Maritime Security and Strategic Investments
Somalia’s long coastline has made maritime security a national priority.
The UAE’s support in developing Puntland’s maritime police force has significantly reduced piracy and bolstered efforts to deny Al-Shabaab access to smuggling routes.
Meanwhile, DP World’s investments in ports like Berbera (Somaliland) and Bosaso (Puntland) have created dual benefits—strengthening Somalia’s trade infrastructure while also providing the UAE with a stronger strategic foothold in the Horn of Africa.
Political and Security Implications
The UAE’s growing footprint in Somalia highlights both the country’s security challenges and the need for reliable international partnerships.
Al-Shabaab’s resurgence has shown that Somalia’s security institutions remain underprepared to operate independently.
While the African Union’s peacekeeping mission (AUSSOM) continues to provide critical support, long-term stability will depend on building a self-sufficient Somali army.
The UAE’s Counterterrorism Efforts Strengthens its Positions as A Key Partner
The UAE’s training programs, coupled with its regional influence and investments, position it as a unique partner capable of addressing both security and economic vulnerabilities.
Ensuring that trained Somali units remain focused on combating terrorism, rather than being drawn into internal political disputes, is essential for the sustainability of these counterterrorism efforts.
The UAE has emerged as a key security and development ally for Somalia, offering training, funding, and strategic infrastructure investment at a time when the country faces persistent threats from Al-Shabaab and other armed groups.
By combining military support with economic development, the UAE is not only bolstering Somalia’s fight against terrorism but also contributing to the long-term vision of a stable and self-reliant Somali state.
