Ali Sabieh: The Gateway to Djibouti's Mystical Deserts

• HelloSelam
  [sə-lam]
• GoodbyeSalaama
  [sa-la-ma]
• YesEey
  [eɪ]
• NoMaya
  [ma-ya]
• Please/You're welcomeMarhaba
  [mar-ha-ba]
• Thank youMisaanka
  [mi-saŋ-ka]
• Excuse me/SorryFadlan
  [fad-lan]
• How are you?Sideed tahay?
  [si-deed ta-haɪ]
• Fine. And you?Waa gud. Idinku waa?
  [wa gʊd. i-din-ku wa]
• Do you speak English?Ma kula hadlayaa Ingiriis?
  [ma ku-la had-la-ya in-gi-riis]
• I don't understandMa fahmin
  [ma fa-min]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseWaan arki karaa menuka, fadlan
  [waan ar-ki ka-ra menu-ka, fad-lan]
• I don't eat meatAniga ma cunin hilib
  [a-ni-ga ma ʧu-nin hi-lib]
• Cheers!Cayaar
  [ʧa-yaar]
• I would like to pay, pleaseWaan ka baqayaa, fadlan
  [waan ka ba-ka-ya, fad-lan]

• Help!Caaw
  [ʧaaw]
• Go away!Tag
  [tag]
• Call the Police!Wac poliska
  [wat pol-is-ka]
• Call a doctor!Waa dhakhtar
  [wa da-ɪk-tar]
• I'm lostAniga waxaan helay
  [a-ni-ga wa-ʧaan he-lay]
• I'm illAniga maraad
  [a-ni-ga ma-raad]

• I'd like to buy...Waan iibgeynaa...
  [waan iɪb-gey-na]
• I'm just lookingWaan arkayaa
  [waan ar-ka-ya]
• How much is it?Dadkaa ha iska leeyahay?
  [dad-ka ha is-ka lee-ya-haɪ]
• That's too expensiveWaa qiimaha ka weyn
  [wa qi-ma-ha ka weyn]
• Can you lower the price?Ha iga saar qiimaha?
  [ha i-ga saar qi-ma-ha]

• What time is it?Waa saacadaha?
  [wa sa-ca-da-ha]
• It's one o'clockWaa saacad ku leh
  [wa sa-caad ku leh]
• Half past (10)Dhalaad ah (10)
  [ʤa-laad ah (10)]
• MorningSubax wanaagsan
  [su-baah wa-naag-san]
• AfternoonGalab wanaagsan
  [ga-lab wa-naag-san]
• EveningCadow wanaagsan
  [ʧa-dow wa-naag-san]
• YesterdayShalay
  [sha-lay]
• TodayMaanta
  [ma-an-ta]
• TomorrowBerri
  [ber-ri]
• 1Kow
  [kow]
• 2Laba
  [la-ba]
• 3Sideed
  [si-deed]
• 4Afar
  [a-far]
• 5Shan
  [ʃan]
• 6Lix
  [liʧ]
• 7Toddobaad
  [to-do-baad]
• 8Siddeed
  [si-ddeed]
• 9Sagaal
  [sa-gaal]
• 10Toban
  [to-ban]

• Where's a/the...?Way ka ahaan...?
  [waɪ ka a-haan]
• What's the address?Cinwaanka maxaa?
  [ʧin-waan-ka ma-ha]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ma iga muuji kartada?
  [ma ɪ-ga muu-ji kar-ta-da]
• When's the next (bus)?Marka u dambeeya (bas)?
  [mar-ka u dam-be-ya (bas)]
• A ticket (to ....)Baabuur (ila...)
  [baa-buur (i-la)]

Ali Sabieh, located in the southern part of Djibouti, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The area has been inhabited by various nomadic tribes, primarily the Issa Somali, for centuries. These early settlers utilized the region's strategic location near trade routes, contributing to its growth and development as a key trading post in the Horn of Africa.

In the late 19th century, the French established a colonial presence in Djibouti, including Ali Sabieh. The town became part of French Somaliland, and the construction of the Ethio-Djibouti Railway in the early 20th century further facilitated its growth. Ali Sabieh's strategic location along the railway line made it an important hub for transportation and commerce, linking Djibouti to Ethiopia and the broader region.

Djibouti gained independence from France on June 27, 1977. Following independence, Ali Sabieh continued to develop as a key town in the country. The government invested in infrastructure and public services, enhancing the town's connectivity and living standards. Today, Ali Sabieh is known for its vibrant markets, cultural heritage, and as a gateway to the scenic landscapes of southern Djibouti.

Ali Sabieh is a melting pot of cultures, with a rich tapestry of traditions and practices. The Issa Somali community, which forms the majority of the population, has a distinct cultural heritage that is evident in the town's music, dance, and festivals. The town's cultural landscape is also influenced by other ethnic groups, creating a diverse and dynamic social fabric.

The region around Ali Sabieh is renowned for its natural beauty, including the scenic Goda Mountains and the stunning Grand Bara Desert. These natural attractions offer opportunities for eco-tourism, with activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the unique desert landscapes. Ali Sabieh serves as a base for visitors looking to experience the natural wonders of southern Djibouti.

Ali Sabieh is located in the southeastern part of Djibouti. The nearest international airport is Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport in Djibouti City, approximately 100 kilometers away. From Djibouti City, you can take a taxi or a shared minibus to Ali Sabieh. The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by road. Alternatively, you can take a train from Djibouti City to Ali Sabieh, which offers a convenient and scenic route through the Djiboutian landscape.

Ali Sabieh is a small town, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Shared minibuses operate within the town and connect to nearby villages. Renting a car can also be a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas at your own pace. Be sure to negotiate taxi fares in advance, as they do not operate on meters.

The official currency in Djibouti is the Djiboutian Franc (DJF). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Ali Sabieh, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Djibouti City before traveling to ensure you have enough funds.

Ali Sabieh is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 17 for police assistance and 18 for medical emergencies. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Ali Sabieh. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Ali Sabieh like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Djiboutian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the nearby Ali Sabieh Mountain, which offers stunning views and great hiking opportunities. For a unique experience, take part in a traditional coffee ceremony, a cherished cultural practice in Djibouti.