Dikhil Region

Dikhil Region is an expansive administrative territory in southern Djibouti covering varied landscapes from flat plateaus to low mountain ranges. The area is sparsely populated with scattered settlements, and its terrain transitions between semi-arid zones and rocky hills that define the regional geography.

This administrative region was formally established in 1930 with Dikhil as its capital, following French colonial efforts to create organized territorial divisions. The creation reflected the European strategy to structure governance across French-controlled territories in the Horn of Africa.

The population of 88,948 inhabitants comprises both Afar and Issa Somali communities, with many residents maintaining traditional nomadic lifestyles across the region.

The main town of Dikhil connects to the capital via the national highway with regular bus services available. Visitors should prepare for intense heat and schedule travel during the cooler months when conditions are more manageable.

Archaeological sites in the region contain ancient engravings and artifacts dating to the fourth millennium BC, revealing evidence of very early human presence in this area. These discoveries show that people were living here thousands of years before modern settlement patterns emerged.

Location: Djibouti

Capital city: Dikhil

Elevation above the sea: 1,362 m

Shares border with: Tadjourah Region, Arta Region, Ali Sabieh Region

GPS coordinates: 11.09972,42.37028

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:02