Living in Djibouti: the ultimate expat guide

Djibouti has streamlined its visa process with an electronic system that simplifies entry for most nationalities. Whether you're planning a short visit or long-term relocation, understanding the various visa options and work permit requirements will help ensure a smooth arrival. The application process is generally straightforward, though processing times require advance planning.

Tourist e-Visa for Short Stays

The tourist e-Visa offers the quickest way to enter Djibouti for leisure or business reconnaissance. Available in two durations—14 days or 90 days single entry—the visa costs USD 26.65 in government fees, with additional service charges depending on the application platform. The visa remains valid for 31 days from your selected start date, providing flexibility for travel planning.

Processing typically takes 10 business days, so apply well in advance of your intended travel date. Requirements are standard: a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date, confirmed flight reservations, and proof of accommodation. The online application eliminates the need to visit an embassy, with the visa delivered directly via email.

Business e-Visa for Professional Travel

Business travelers can apply for a business e-Visa for short-term single-entry stays. Requirements mirror the tourist visa: a passport valid for 6 months, flight reservations, and in some cases, an invitation letter from a Djiboutian business partner. This documentation helps demonstrate the purpose of your visit and can expedite processing. The online application system functions identically to the tourist visa.

Long-Term Visas for Work and Residence

For extended stays involving employment, study, or family reunion, you'll need to apply for a long-term visa at a Djiboutian embassy or consulate in your home country. The application package requires several key documents: an employment contract for workers, valid health insurance covering your entire stay, a recent criminal background check, and bank statements demonstrating sufficient financial resources.

Processing takes between 6 and 9 business days, though it's wise to allow more time depending on location and season. This visa forms the first step toward obtaining residence and work permits once in Djibouti. US citizens can work with the Djiboutian embassy in Washington, DC, while UK residents should contact the embassy in London, and other nationalities should check with their nearest diplomatic mission.

Residence and Work Permits

Once in Djibouti on a long-term visa, securing a residence permit and work permit becomes essential for legal employment. These authorizations are managed by ANEFIP (Agence Nationale pour l'Emploi, la Formation et l'Insertion Professionnelle), the national employment agency.

Work permits incur annual fees based on three professional categories: DJF 50,000 (approximately USD 281), DJF 100,000 (USD 563), or DJF 200,000 (USD 1,125). These amounts typically reflect your qualification level and job responsibilities. Your Djiboutian employer usually sponsors the application and provides necessary documentation. Verify with your employer which category applies to your position to budget accordingly.

Visa Exemptions and Visa on Arrival

Djibouti maintains visa exemption agreements with 17 countries, allowing their citizens to stay between 14 and 90 days depending on nationality, without prior arrangements. Additionally, 27 countries qualify for visa on arrival, issued directly at Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport. These arrangements facilitate business travel and tourism while strengthening the country's position as a regional hub. Check the current list of eligible countries before travel, as agreements can change.

Djibouti's job market presents a mixed picture: while official unemployment remains high, specific sectors offer genuine opportunities for qualified expatriates. The service sector dominates the economy at 85% of GDP, driven largely by port operations and the presence of international military bases. Understanding these dynamics helps target your job search or business venture effectively.

Labor Market Overview

Official unemployment stands at 26.15% as of 2023, but international estimates suggest the real rate approaches 60%, reflecting the substantial informal economy that comprises roughly 75% of economic activity. Youth unemployment (ages 15-24) reaches 75-80%, highlighting a structural challenge for the local population.

These figures primarily affect local residents. For expatriates with technical or managerial skills, the landscape differs significantly. The average net monthly salary is DJF 505,678 (approximately USD 2,847), though this varies considerably by sector and qualification level. The public sector minimum wage is set at DJF 45,000 monthly (USD 254), while the private sector has no legally mandated minimum, leaving room for negotiation.

Sources: Trading Economics, US Department of State, Numbeo

Major Employers

The Djiboutian government remains a primary employer, particularly in telecommunications and electricity. The Port of Djibouti and international airport represent major employment hubs, regularly recruiting technical and logistics professionals. Multiple international military bases—French, American, Chinese, Japanese, and Italian—create opportunities for civilian contractors in administrative, technical, and service roles. The US Embassy ranks as the second-largest employer in the country.

These organizations seek specific skill sets: engineers, technicians, logistics managers, security experts, medical personnel, and educators. English speakers benefit from working with international organizations, though French fluency provides a significant advantage given its status as an official language and business lingua franca.

Growing Sectors

Port services and logistics dominate Djibouti's economy, representing 70% of port activity. The deep-water port handles transshipment to landlocked Ethiopia and beyond, creating constant demand for qualified professionals. The transport and communications sector is growing at 7% in 2025, driven by infrastructure investments.

Construction is experiencing remarkable expansion at 12% in 2025, fueled by major urban and port development projects. Tourism, though less developed, is growing at 3.4% in 2025 and beginning to attract investors and hospitality professionals. Fishing shows exceptional growth of 42% in 2025, supported by exploitation of Red Sea and Gulf of Aden marine resources.

These expanding sectors present interesting prospects for entrepreneurs and qualified professionals looking to contribute to the country's economic development.

Starting a Business

Djibouti has modernized its business registration procedures with online registration available for certain sectors, reducing delays and bureaucracy. The key agency is ODPIC (Office Djiboutien de la Propriété Industrielle et du Commerce), which centralizes company registration and ensures legal compliance.

The investment code underwent major revision in 2022 with European Union support, aimed at clarifying rules and improving the country's attractiveness to foreign investors. This reform simplified sectoral authorizations and strengthened investment protection.

The DDID free zone (Djibouti International Free Trade Zone) offers an attractive option for import-export businesses. Currently expanding, this zone provides significant tax and customs advantages along with quality logistics infrastructure. Entrepreneurs looking to establish operations in Djibouti should explore this option, particularly if targeting regional markets or transit trade.

Djibouti's tax system encompasses several types of levies affecting both individuals and businesses. While relatively straightforward in structure, it requires careful understanding to anticipate obligations and optimize your situation. Expatriate employees and entrepreneurs should familiarize themselves with these rules from the start to avoid complications.

Personal Income Tax

Personal income tax follows a progressive scale applied to gross salary after employee social security deductions. For 2025, the first bracket up to DJF 240,000 annually (approximately USD 1,350) is fully exempt, allowing modest incomes to escape taxation. The second bracket, between DJF 240,000 and DJF 600,000 (USD 1,350 to 3,375), is taxed at 10%. Rates beyond DJF 600,000 are not specified in available official sources, but taxation remains progressive.

This system favors low to moderate earners while maintaining tax equity. Withholding at source is typically handled by employers, simplifying procedures for expatriate employees. US citizens should note their worldwide income reporting obligations under FATCA, while UK residents should verify post-Brexit tax implications. Check if a tax treaty exists between your home country and Djibouti to avoid double taxation.

Corporate Tax

Companies established in Djibouti face corporate tax at a standard rate of 25% on realized profits. Certain activities or structures benefit from special regimes or temporary exemptions, particularly in free zones or for businesses engaged in priority sectors defined by authorities.

Companies must also pay a payroll tax at 5%, calculated on gross payroll. This employer contribution adds to other social charges and must be factored into total labor costs. Entrepreneurs should engage a local accountant to ensure compliance and identify potential tax advantages.

Value Added Tax (VAT)

Djibouti applies VAT at 10% on most goods and services sold within the territory. This relatively moderate rate reflects a desire to maintain a competitive tax environment. Essential products, medical services, or education may qualify for exemptions or reduced rates depending on current legislation.

VAT-liable businesses must register with tax authorities and file periodic returns. The VAT deduction mechanism on business purchases operates according to international standards, allowing companies to recover tax paid upstream.

Other Taxes and Levies

Djibouti's tax landscape includes other specific charges. A tax on electric vehicles was introduced in 2025, reflecting adaptation to new economic and environmental realities. Banking transactions have also been taxed since 2025 as part of broadening the tax base.

Expatriate property owners should inquire about property tax and applicable local taxes. Similarly, customs duties can represent a significant charge for importing personal goods during relocation. Obtain precise information from customs authorities or a specialized advisor before any move.

Overall Tax Burden and Business Climate

According to 2020 data, the total tax rate for businesses in Djibouti represented 38.6% of commercial profits, encompassing all mandatory taxes and contributions. This level sits within the regional average and remains competitive compared to some neighboring countries. However, entrepreneurs must consider all regulatory and administrative constraints beyond taxation alone when evaluating project viability.

The country continues modernizing its tax and administrative systems with support from international institutions like the IMF and European Union. These reforms aim to simplify procedures, reduce informality, and improve fiscal predictability—all favorable elements for long-term investors.

Djibouti's healthcare system has made notable progress in recent years, particularly regarding access to care in rural areas. However, infrastructure remains limited and unevenly distributed, with medical facilities concentrated in the capital. For expatriates, comprehensive international health insurance is strongly recommended to ensure access to quality care and enable medical evacuation if necessary.

Public Healthcare Facilities

The Djiboutian public sector includes several reference establishments in the capital. Hôpital Général Peltier, the country's main hospital, offers relatively comprehensive technical capabilities with surgery, internal medicine, and emergency services. Hôpital militaire Bouffard also has significant capacity, though access may be restricted. These public facilities have limitations in advanced equipment and specialized medical services.

Access to basic care has improved through health centers opened in several capital neighborhoods and some rural areas. The Centre médico-chirurgical Dar Es Salam and Centre de référence mère-enfant exemplify this evolution, providing consultations and outpatient care at affordable rates for the local population.

Private Clinics and Healthcare

The private sector has developed to meet growing demand for quality care. Polyclinique Djibouti ranks among the most recognized private facilities, offering general practitioner and specialist consultations, medical analyses, and imaging. Specialized clinics have also emerged, covering pediatrics, gynecology, and ophthalmology.

These private establishments charge significantly higher rates than public facilities but generally offer better comfort and reduced waiting times. For expatriates accustomed to Western standards, these clinics often represent the first recourse for health issues. Verify coverage with your insurance before any consultation or procedure.

International Health Insurance

Given the local healthcare system's limitations, international health insurance is essential for any expatriate. These policies cover not only routine and hospital care in Djibouti but crucially include medical evacuation to a better-equipped neighboring country or even back home in case of serious medical emergency.

Several specialized companies offer expatriate-tailored plans with varying coverage levels. Compare offers carefully, noting reimbursement caps, any exclusions, dental and optical coverage, and repatriation terms. Premiums vary by age, health status, and desired coverage extent but represent a valuable investment against health uncertainties.

Expatriate employees may receive employer-negotiated coverage through a group contract. In this case, carefully review the proposed coverage and supplement if necessary with individual insurance. US citizens may need supplementary coverage to meet their healthcare needs, while UK expatriates might consider plans compatible with NHS if planning periodic returns home.

Pharmacies and Medications

Pharmacies concentrate primarily in Djibouti City, distributing essential medicines and some imported specialties. Availability of specific medications can be unpredictable, so bring a well-stocked first aid kit when relocating. Prescriptions issued abroad are generally accepted, but having one written in French or English, the business languages, is preferable.

Medication prices vary by origin and local availability. Some chronic or specialized treatments may require importation from abroad, generating additional costs. Discuss these aspects with your doctor before departure and stock up on your usual treatments for the first months of expatriation.

Health Precautions

Djibouti presents certain health risks related to its hot, arid climate and regional environment. Vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and tetanus are strongly recommended before departure. Antimalarial treatment may be advised depending on season and areas visited, though risk remains limited in the capital.

Tap water is not potable; consume only bottled or filtered water. Intense heat, especially May through September with temperatures regularly exceeding 40°C (104°F), requires constant hydration and precautions against heat stroke. Gradually adapt and limit intense physical exertion during the hottest hours.

Expatriate families have several schooling options in Djibouti, primarily choosing between international English-medium schools and the French-based Djiboutian education system. Quality and curricula vary significantly between institutions, requiring careful consideration based on your children's ages and family's medium-term plans.

International English-Medium Schools

Quality School International (QSI) Djibouti stands as the country's primary international school, following the American curriculum from kindergarten through high school. Accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, QSI offers recognized quality English-medium education, facilitating continuation to US universities or other English-speaking countries. The school enrolls approximately 150 students from diverse nationalities, creating a multicultural environment.

Tuition fees for 2024-2025 vary by level: USD 13,400 for preschool, USD 14,600 for elementary, and USD 16,200 for middle and high school. While these amounts may seem high, they align with American international school standards in the region. Many expatriate employers cover all or part of these fees as part of compensation packages.

International School of Africa (ISA) Djibouti offers another option, providing an English curriculum with particular emphasis on international outlook and African values. The school accepts students from kindergarten through high school and benefits from modern facilities.

Bilingual and Local System Schools

International School of Djibouti (ISD) distinguishes itself through its French-English bilingual approach, allowing children to maintain or develop skills in both languages. This option particularly suits families wanting gradual English exposure or considering future mobility to an English-speaking country.

The Djiboutian education system, based on the French model, provides French-medium instruction from primary through secondary school. Programs generally follow the French curriculum with local adaptations. For families settling long-term whose children are fluent in French, integrating into the local system can be an economical option promoting cultural immersion. However, assess specific school quality and consider reintegration possibilities if planning to return home.

Extracurricular Activities and Support

International schools generally offer various sports and cultural activities after classes, allowing children to develop talents and build social connections. Football, basketball, swimming, arts, and various clubs enrich the school experience and ease integration into the expatriate community.

For students needing academic support or wanting to deepen certain subjects, private tutoring can be arranged. Expatriate or local teachers offer services, particularly for languages, mathematics, or science. The parent network provides a valuable resource for identifying qualified tutors and sharing experiences.

Enrollment Preparation

International school enrollment applications should be submitted several months before the academic year, as spaces are limited and demand often exceeds supply. Applications typically include previous years' report cards, birth certificate, updated vaccination record, and sometimes assessment tests in English and mathematics.

Families must also budget for initial registration fees, separate from annual tuition, plus ancillary costs (school transport, cafeteria, uniforms, educational materials). Negotiating your expatriation contract must address children's schooling, a determining element of family budget in Djibouti.

Finding housing in Djibouti, particularly in the capital, requires patience and solid knowledge of the local market. Property supply remains limited and rents high, especially for accommodation meeting expatriate comfort standards. Anticipating this search and understanding local rental terms will facilitate your settlement.

Available Housing Types

Djibouti's rental market primarily offers apartments and villas, concentrated in Djibouti City and immediate surroundings. Apartments range from studios to four-bedroom units with highly variable standards. Villas, often more spacious with gardens, appeal to expatriate families but command significantly higher rents.

Expatriate-targeted housing typically sits in secured residences or quiet neighborhoods, often equipped with security guards, private parking, and sometimes shared swimming pools. These amenities directly impact rent. Conversely, simpler housing without these features remains accessible to more modest budgets but often requires upgrades for comfort.

Popular Neighborhoods

The Hérons district ranks among the most sought-after residential areas for expatriates, offering calm and proximity to services. The Hérouale sector, located near the international airport and several embassies, also concentrates quality housing suitable for international families. These neighborhoods benefit from more secure environments and easier access to international schools.

Downtown Djibouti offers centrality advantages, with shops, restaurants, and services immediately accessible, but can be noisier and less green. Some newer peripheral neighborhoods offer modern residences at sometimes more affordable prices, at the cost of distance from amenities and increased commute times.

Rent and Utilities

Djibouti rents rank among the region's highest, reflecting sustained demand and limited supply. A two or three-bedroom apartment in a desirable neighborhood easily reaches USD 1,500 to 2,500 monthly, or more for top-tier properties. Family villas with gardens and full amenities regularly exceed USD 3,000 monthly.

Utilities (water, electricity, trash collection) add to rent and can represent substantial amounts, particularly electricity due to intensive air conditioning use. Electricity bills easily reach several hundred dollars monthly for a house or large apartment. Clarify from lease signing whether these charges are included or additional to stated rent.

Rental Terms and Contracts

Renting property in Djibouti typically requires a security deposit equivalent to one or two months' rent, returned at lease end subject to property condition. Some landlords also demand several months' rent upfront, a common practice representing a significant immediate outlay.

Lease contracts are often established for one-year renewable terms, with negotiable early termination clauses requiring two to three months' notice. Strongly consider engaging a lawyer or real estate agent to verify lease clauses, ensure property compliance, and avoid later disputes. Entry inspections must be conducted thoroughly and documented in writing with photographs.

Housing Search Resources

Housing searches primarily rely on word-of-mouth and expatriate networks. The Expat.com forum and social media groups dedicated to Djibouti expatriates provide valuable resources for spotting listings, obtaining advice, and connecting with landlords or departing expatriates.

Some local real estate agencies also offer rental properties, charging agency fees typically representing one month's rent. Using an agency offers the advantage of an intermediary to negotiate with landlords and facilitate administrative procedures. International rental platforms like Airbnb offer temporary solutions for initial weeks while finding permanent housing, though at rates often prohibitive long-term.

Ideally, plan a preliminary visit to Djibouti before your final move to view several properties, familiarize yourself with neighborhoods, and finalize your choice with full knowledge. While costly, this approach can prevent many disappointments and greatly ease your adaptation.

Moving to Djibouti requires meticulous preparation, covering logistics, administrative matters, and customs procedures. Anticipating each step and establishing a detailed checklist helps you manage this major transition smoothly. Here are the essential points to ensure a successful relocation.

Comprehensive Moving Checklist

1. Three months before departure: Obtain your long-term visa from Djibouti's embassy, arrange comprehensive international health insurance including medical evacuation, and cancel or suspend current contracts (utilities, internet, subscriptions)
2. Two months before: Select a specialized international moving company and request multiple detailed quotes, create a precise inventory of belongings with value estimates for insurance and customs, and organize children's schooling by contacting schools and preparing enrollment files
3. Six weeks before: Complete a comprehensive medical checkup and update mandatory and recommended vaccinations, obtain prescriptions for ongoing treatments with generic drug names listed, and gather all important administrative documents in a single file
4. One month before: Handle banking matters by opening an international account or informing your bank of your move, arrange pet transport if applicable with verification of health requirements, and prepare a well-stocked first aid kit for initial settling-in
5. Three weeks before: Begin systematic packing, clearly identifying essential boxes for priority arrival, digitize all important documents and store in secure cloud storage, and book temporary accommodation in Djibouti for first nights if needed
6. Two weeks before: Confirm logistics details with moving company and verify pickup and delivery dates, prepare carry-on luggage with essentials for three weeks, and inform friends and professional contacts of your new address
7. One week before: Finalize last administrative procedures and close local bank accounts if necessary, conduct walkthrough of current housing with photos for move-out inspection, and confirm your arrival with employer or local contacts
8. Departure day: Verify you have all travel documents, visas, medical prescriptions, and emergency contacts in Djibouti, keep digital copy of moving inventory accessible from smartphone, and carry local currency or international bank card for first days

Customs and Import Procedures

Importing personal effects to Djibouti requires specific customs formalities. You must provide a detailed valued inventory of all imported goods, translated to French or English if necessary, accompanied by copies of your employment contract and visa. Vehicles and electronic equipment may incur high customs duties, so research costs precisely before shipping these items.

Certain articles are prohibited or strictly regulated: weapons, large quantities of pharmaceuticals, professional telecommunications equipment. Pets require an international health certificate, updated vaccination record including rabies, and sometimes a quarantine period. Anticipate these procedures several months ahead to avoid arrival complications.

Sea or Air Transport

Choosing between sea transport and air freight depends on shipment volume and urgency. Sea transport, less expensive, suits large volumes and furniture but requires several weeks to months between pickup and delivery. Air freight, much faster, works for essentials but shows prohibitive rates for large volumes.

A mixed solution involves shipping the bulk by sea while carrying or air-freighting essentials for initial weeks. Ask your moving company to price these different options and estimate realistic delivery timeframes to Djibouti, accounting for potential delays from port and customs operations.

Insurance and Shipment Tracking

Arranging comprehensive insurance covering international transport of your belongings is essential. Carefully review general conditions, any exclusions, and reimbursement caps. Photograph valuable items before packing and retain purchase receipts to facilitate potential claims.

Require a tracking number from your moving company and regular contact points throughout the process. Upon arrival, inspect your belongings thoroughly with the delivery person present and immediately note any anomalies, breakage, or missing items on the delivery receipt. These reservations are essential for activating insurance coverage in case of damage.

Despite its small size, Djibouti offers unique experiences combining desert landscapes, exceptional marine environments, and cultural richness. Nature lovers and diving enthusiasts will find a privileged playground here, while the urban cultural scene gradually develops. Here's how to make the most of your expatriation by discovering the country's multiple facets.

Diving and Water Sports

The Gulf of Tadjoura ranks as one of the country's natural jewels, renowned for crystalline waters and exceptional marine biodiversity. Coral reefs shelter rich fauna including sharks, rays, turtles, and multitudes of tropical fish. Several dive clubs offer day trips with complete equipment and French or English-speaking instruction.

From November to January, the gulf welcomes majestic whale sharks, offering divers and snorkelers the rare opportunity to swim alongside these peaceful giants. This unforgettable experience attracts enthusiasts worldwide and represents a yearly highlight in Djibouti. Book outings several weeks ahead during this period.

Sport fishing enthusiasts will also find satisfaction in the fish-rich waters of the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. Barracudas, mahi-mahi, and tuna offer great catches, whether from boats or rocky shorelines.

Desert Landscape Excursions

Lake Assal, located 155 meters below sea level, holds the record as Africa's lowest point. This vast salt lake with turquoise waters surrounded by white mineral formations creates a striking lunar landscape. A day trip from the capital allows exploring this unique geological site, bathing in hypersaline waters, and collecting salt crystals as souvenirs.

Lake Abbé, at the Ethiopian border, impresses with its smoking limestone chimneys, evidence of underground geothermal activity. Sunrise over this surreal landscape, evoking another planet, alone justifies the several-hour journey from Djibouti City. These excursions typically require 4x4 vehicles and experienced guides, given difficult tracks and area isolation.

Ghoubbet al-Kharab, or "gulf of demons," fascinates with its deep waters and abrupt volcanic landscapes. It's also a prime site for observing whale sharks during season. The Day Forest, at altitude, offers a rare green oasis with centuries-old junipers and panoramic valley views.

Urban Culture and City Life

The capital concentrates most Djiboutian cultural life. The central market, the city's true beating heart, displays colorful stalls mixing spices, fabrics, handicrafts, and fresh produce. Wandering its alleys immerses you in local life and provides practice in the art of bargaining with merchants.

The African quarter abounds with small restaurants serving authentic Djiboutian cuisine: skoudehkaris (spiced rice), lahoh (traditional pancakes), grilled fish, and fragrant lamb stews. These family establishments, often simple but welcoming, offer a flavorful alternative to more formal restaurants.

The local music scene blends African, Arab, and Western influences. Some bars and cafés regularly host live performances featuring local and regional artists. Nightlife remains modest compared to major capitals, partly due to hot climate and cultural traditions.

Sports and Outdoor Activities

Djibouti's climate requires adapting sports activities: favor morning or late afternoon sessions to avoid peak heat hours. Several capital sports clubs offer tennis, football, basketball, and fitness in decent facilities. Running along the seaside corniche provides pleasant scenery at sunrise or sunset.

Kitesurfing and windsurfing have recently developed on certain beaches, benefiting from regular winds across the Gulf of Tadjoura. Some equipped centers welcome beginners and advanced practitioners for adapted sessions.

Hiking in northern mountain areas offers spectacular views but requires good physical preparation, proper equipment, and a guide familiar with secure zones. Extreme temperatures and terrain aridity demand caution and constant hydration.

Events and Celebrations

The Djiboutian calendar includes several highlights. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, major Muslim holidays, feature family celebrations and sharing moments. June 27, national independence day, is marked by parades, official festivities, and cultural events in the capital.

Some international sporting events, like nautical races or trail running competitions, occasionally attract regional participants. These events offer opportunities to meet other expatriates and discover Djibouti from a different angle.

Djibouti's cost of living ranks among Africa's highest due to the country's dependence on imports for virtually all consumer goods. Food, water, electricity, and housing weigh heavily on household budgets. This economic reality stems from territorial aridity, absence of significant agricultural production, and logistics costs related to importing. For expatriates, accurately assessing these expenses before relocation avoids unpleasant surprises and helps negotiate an appropriate compensation package.

Monthly Budget for Single Person

A single expatriate in Djibouti should budget substantially to maintain a comfortable living standard. The table below details main expense categories based on Numbeo data from April 2025, expressed in Djiboutian francs and US dollars for clarity.

Source: Numbeo (April 2025). Conversion based on fixed rate of DJF 177.721 = USD 1.

This baseline budget excludes international health insurance, potential language course tuition, home country return trips, or savings. It represents a minimum for comfortable city living without particular extravagances.

Monthly Budget for Family of Four

Expatriate families face significantly higher expenses, particularly due to family housing costs, international school tuition, and increased electricity consumption for cooling larger spaces. Here's a detailed estimate for a family of four with two school-age children.

Source: Numbeo (April 2025), estimates based on average international school tuition and typical expatriate family costs.

This family budget can vary significantly depending on housing choices, number and ages of children, and adopted lifestyle. International health insurance for a family represents an additional expense of USD 500 to 1,000 monthly depending on chosen coverage. Annual home country trips also constitute a significant item to budget from the start.

Budget Management Tips

Facing this high cost of living, several strategies help limit expenses. Favoring local markets over imported supermarkets significantly reduces food bills, even if product range differs from Western habits. Learning to cook with locally available products—fresh fish, legumes, grains—improves both budget and cultural immersion.

Negotiating a comprehensive compensation package including housing, children's schooling, health insurance, company vehicle, and annual flights is imperative when accepting an expatriation contract to Djibouti. Without these benefits, the net salary needed to maintain a decent living standard reaches extreme levels.

Sharing experiences with other expatriates helps identify local bargains, reliable merchants, and quality services at reasonable prices. Networking plays an essential role in daily budget management and accessing alternative solutions to classic commercial circuits, often prohibitively priced.