Djibouti - Post Report Question and Answers

What is the relative size of the expatriate community? How would you describe overall morale among expatriates?

There is a very large French military presence, but a very small expat community outside of that. - May 2022


Lots of military from different countries, but little dip corps or other expats. - Sep 2020


Morale is generally good. You should make an effort to meet the expatriates. They will show you how to enjoy your time in Djibouti. Most expats buy boats and use them every weekend to take the family out. They normally resell them when they leave. If you don't make an effort, you could find yourself spending a lot of your time bored and at home. - Apr 2018


The expat community is growing. With the foreign militaries alone, there are Italians, French, Americans, Germans, and Japanese. The diplomatic community feels insular - except for the occasional reception, there's not much overlap or interaction with other Missions despite the small size of the community. The French air base has started an exchange with the Embassy (i.e. pairs us with a sponsor) that allows us access to their facilities. It's a good chance to practice French/English, too. The French base also offers a lot of activities for individuals, kids, and families such as photography club, dance classes, soccer, tennis, arts and crafts, sailing, etc. - Jun 2016


Pretty big for essentially an island and morale has been great through several rotations. Those who don't hybernate do the best. - Aug 2015


Large. - Feb 2013


There is a small English-speaking expat community. There are a lot of Americans at Camp Lemonnier, but they rotate out every year. Plus, unless you have a reason to get to know people there, such as working with them, going to church with them, etc., you may find you don't have too many friends from Camp. - Apr 2010


There are many French expats in Djibouti, but other Expats are limited. The UN is present, WFP...There are not a lot of other Embassies from Western countries. The French. The Chinese. The rest were African, NEA. - Aug 2008


Small. - Apr 2008


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