Is it okay to use ATMs late in the evening in Somalia or should I stick to daytime withdrawals only? I am a single woman travelling so want to be safe.
Somalia isn’t set up for casual tourism, and infrastructure is fragile. ATMs are rare and often offline. If you absolutely need cash, go during daylight hours with a trusted local. Withdrawing money after dark in Somalia is not just unsafe - it’s largely impossible. Carry enough USD when entering the country.
In Hargeisa (Somaliland), I was able to withdraw from a Premier Bank ATM, but only during the day. Locals mentioned evening banking is uncommon and discouraged, even in calmer regions. Street lighting is minimal, and many ATMs shut down before sunset for safety reasons.
While on a short humanitarian visit, I was told ATMs in Somalia often don’t work with international cards. Most expats or visitors rely on cash wiring services or make large daytime withdrawals inside secure compounds. Night travel is discouraged entirely in most cities due to security risks.
ATM access in Somalia is extremely limited. In Mogadishu, I only found Dahabshiil ATMs near certain hotels, and they were guarded. Locals strongly advised against going out at night for any reason, including cash withdrawals. Is it safe to withdraw money in Somalia at night? No - always do it during the day and only in secure, private settings.