Emergency Numbers & Access
H么pital Bouffard (French military) - best emergency care option.
Response time: 15-30 minutes in Djibouti city
Cost: Public $10-50; French military hospital varies
Healthcare System
Djibouti's healthcare is limited but bolstered by the French military presence. H么pital Bouffard (French military hospital) provides the best care and is accessible to civilians in emergencies. H么pital G茅n茅ral Peltier is the main public hospital. Several international military bases (French, US, Japanese, Chinese) maintain medical facilities. Desert heat (regularly 40掳C+) poses health risks. Khat chewing is culturally prevalent.
Designed for: Residents and military personnel. Tourists use private clinics or French military hospital.
GP Access & Costs
Walk-in at private clinics; H么pital Bouffard for emergencies
Typical wait: Same day at private
Availability: Djibouti city only; rest of country has minimal healthcare
GP Visit
$30-80 USD
Private GP
$30-80 USD
ER Without Insurance
$100-1,000+ USD
Medication
Pharmacies in Djibouti city stock basics. Bring personal medications.
Practical Tips
- H么pital Bouffard (French military) - best care available, inquire about civilian access
- Stay hydrated - heat-related illness is the #1 risk
- French or Arabic essential for medical communication
- Evacuation to Dubai or Nairobi for specialist care
Who can get care in Djibouti?
Emergency care for anyone
Emergency departments in Djibouti treat everyone regardless of residency or insurance status. Charges can still apply afterwards.
Public system for visitors
The public system does not cover visitors, so care is paid privately or through insurance.
Seeing a Doctor as a visitor
Walk-in at private clinics; H么pital Bouffard for emergencies Typical cost: $30-80 USD Typical wait: Same day at private
Insurance needed for entry or visa
Not a formal entry requirement, but medical cover is strongly recommended. Emergency care without cover: $100-1,000+ USD.
Documents worth having ready
- Travel insurance with evacuation cover
- Passport
- Visa
Local contacts in Djibouti
Emergency services
17 (police) / 18 (fire) / 351351 (ambulance)
H么pital Bouffard (French military) - best emergency care option.
Pharmacies
Pharmacy hours vary by city; larger towns usually have a late-night rota.
What is the emergency number in Djibouti?
17 (police) or 18 (fire) or 351351 (ambulance) in Djibouti. H么pital Bouffard (French military) - best emergency care option.
How much does a Doctor visit cost in Djibouti?
$30-80 USD Private consultations: $30-80 USD.
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Sources: Djibouti Ministry of Health, WHO Djibouti, CDC Travelers' Health 2024
Last reviewed: March 2026 by ViscaCare