Djibouti flag

Djibouti

Republic of Djibouti

Capital

Djibouti

Region

Africa

Population

1,066,809

Area (km²)

23,200

💡Quick Summary

Djibouti, a compact nation in the Horn of Africa spanning 23,200 km², is home to around 1.07 million people and serves as a strategic gateway between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. Its capital, also called Djibouti, is a bustling port city that drives the economy through trade and foreign military bases, though detailed GDP figures are unavailable here. Despite its arid landscape, the country plays a key role in regional stability and international shipping routes.

Key Insights

Low Life Expectancy and High Infant Mortality Challenge Development

Djibouti faces significant public health challenges, evidenced by a life expectancy of 65.99 years, which is relatively low compared to global averages. The high infant mortality rate (44.400 per 1,000 live births) points to critical deficiencies in maternal and child healthcare access and quality.

Significant Infrastructure Gap in Basic Services

Despite being highly urbanized and having a mid-range GDP per capita, only about two-thirds (65.200%) of the population has access to electricity. This large gap indicates substantial infrastructure deficits, particularly in rural or peri-urban areas, hindering development and quality of life.

Highly Urbanized Population in a Desert Environment

Djibouti is highly urbanized, with over 72% of its population living in urban centers. This concentration is remarkable given the country's small size and arid climate, highlighting the critical role of the capital city and port infrastructure in sustaining the population and economy.

High GDP Per Capita Masks Severe Unemployment Crisis

Djibouti exhibits a relatively high GDP per capita ($3,381.30) compared to many low-income countries, suggesting significant economic activity, likely driven by its strategic port location. However, this wealth distribution appears highly unequal, evidenced by an extremely high unemployment rate of over 26%, indicating a major challenge in job creation and economic inclusion.

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$3.90B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$3,381.3

GDP Growth (%)

6.81%

Inflation (%)

1.5%

Unemployment (%)

26.15%

Debt to GDP (%)

N/A%

Source: World Bank • Last updated: 12/24/2025

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.00%2.00%4.00%6.00%8.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230300,000600,000900,0001,200,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years20.0years40.0years60.0years80.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
2014201520162017201820192020202120220.0%8.0%16.0%24.0%32.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$850$1,700$2,550$3,400
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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