What Languages Do They Speak In Somalia?

Explore the languages spoken in Somalia on an interactive map.

Somalia Languages: Quick FactsSomalia flag

Languages

2

Somali, Arabic

Population

17,070,000

Cost of living

~ $880

Index: 17.6

Safety / crime index

Low

Crime Index: 66.7

Do They Speak English in Somalia?

English proficiency

Very Low

Ranked #100 on the EF English Proficiency Index.

In short

English is unlikely to be reliable across much of Somalia outside tourist-focused contexts. Knowing some Somali is highly recommended for smoother day-to-day interactions.

FAQ

Somalia Language FAQ

Short answers to common questions about the main languages, English usage, and communication in Somalia.

  • People in Somalia speak Somali, Arabic.

  • The main languages spoken in Somalia are Somali, Arabic.

  • Not reliably. Outside a few international or tourist settings, you should expect to need some Somali.

What languages do they speak in Somalia?

People in Somalia speak Somali, Arabic.

What is the main language in Somalia?

The main languages spoken in Somalia are Somali, Arabic.

Can you get by with English in Somalia?

Not reliably. Outside a few international or tourist settings, you should expect to need some Somali.

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