Somalia's official currency is the Somali shilling (SOS), but in Mogadishu most prices are quoted and paid in US dollars. Small change is often given in shillings.
Mobile money is king
Somalia has one of the highest mobile-money usage rates in the world. Shops, taxis, hotels and even street vendors accept payments by phone.
- EVC Plus (Hormuud) — the most widely used wallet in Mogadishu
- e-Dahab (Somtel)
- Zaad (Telesom) — used mainly in Somaliland
- Sahal (Golis) — used mainly in Puntland
Activate a wallet when you buy your SIM card: you will need your passport. You can top up with cash at any agent.
Cash and cards
- Bring clean, recent US dollar notes. Older or damaged notes may be refused.
- Some banks run ATMs in Mogadishu that dispense dollars, but do not rely on foreign cards working.
- Card payments are accepted at a few large hotels only.
Sending and receiving money
Money-transfer (hawala) companies and banks such as Dahabshiil, Premier Bank and Salaam Bank have branches across the city and connect to the diaspora worldwide.
Frequently asked questions
What currency should I bring to Mogadishu?
Bring clean, recent US dollar notes. Most prices are quoted in dollars and mobile money is widely used.
What is EVC Plus?
EVC Plus is Hormuud Telecom's mobile-money wallet, the most widely used payment method in Mogadishu.