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Stade El Hadj Hassan Gouled Aptidon

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Stade El Hadj Hassan Gouled Aptidon (Djibouti)

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The Stade El Hadj Hassan Gouled Aptidon is the preeminent sporting venue in Djibouti, serving as the country's national stadium. Completed in 1977 shortly after Djibouti gained its independence, the stadium is named in honor of the Republic's first president. The facility was constructed with international assistance, particularly from China, and has undergone several renovations to meet modern competitive standards. With a seating capacity of approximately 20,000, it provides a home ground for the Djiboutian national football team, often referred to as the Shoremen of the Red Sea. Beyond football, the stadium hosts major athletics competitions and significant national celebrations, cementing its role as a center of national identity. The pitch features high-quality artificial turf designed to withstand the region's harsh climatic conditions. Located near the city center, it remains the focal point for both grassroots sports development and elite athletic achievements in the nation.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C242526283134343433292725
Rain mm662051277172731211014

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Stade El Hadj Hassan Gouled Aptidon is usually open only during sporting events. Visitors can gain entry during football matches or concerts.
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Typical hours
Opening hours follow the local event calendar. On non-training days, the stadium is typically closed.
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Photography
Photography during the event is allowed from seating areas. Flash is generally not permitted to avoid distracting athletes.
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Time needed
A football match lasts about 90 minutes, plus halftime. Allow extra time for travel and entry.
Combine with
Combine the stadium visit with the nearby Hamoudi Mosque or Place de la République. The port of Djibouti is also worth a detour.
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Getting there
The stadium is located in Djibouti City and easily reachable by taxi. Parking is available but limited on match days.
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Insider tip
Check the fixture list in advance as home matches are not always scheduled. Arrive early to enjoy the pre-game atmosphere.

Geography

Coordinates
11.58100, 43.14000

Facts

  • Named after El Hadj Hassan Gouled Aptidon, the first president.
  • Seating capacity is approximately 20,000 spectators.
  • Official home ground for the Djibouti national football team.
  • Equipped with a modern FIFA 2 Star rated artificial turf pitch.
  • Includes an eight-lane athletics track for international competitions.
  • Underwent a major renovation and modernization project in 2007.

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Sights in the town Stade El Hadj Hassan Gouled Aptidon (5)

Theatre des Salines lmsrH lmlH@

A theatre in Djibouti City hosting plays and cultural performances.

Centre Culturel Institut Francais Arthur Rimbaud lmrkz lthqfy lm`hd lfrnsy arthr rmbw

French cultural institute in Djibouti City with a library and language courses.

Cathedrale Notre-Dame du Bon-Pasteur - ktdry'y@ lsyd@ l`dhr lr`y lSlH

Roman Catholic cathedral in Djibouti City, a prominent church building.

Plage de la Siesta shTy' lqylwl@

A sandy beach in Djibouti City on the Gulf of Tadjoura, suitable for swimming.

Air Djibouti

A monument in Djibouti City honoring the national airline of Djibouti.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What events take place at the National Stadium?
Mainly football matches of the national team and athletics competitions.
What is the official name of the stadium?
Stade El Hadj Hassan Gouled Aptidon.
What is the spectator capacity?
It has a capacity for about 20,000 spectators.
Can you visit the stadium when there's no match?
Often only a view from the outside is possible; access to the field is usually locked.
Where is the stadium located?
It is located in the Quartier 7 district in Djibouti City.
Stade El Hadj Hassan Gouled Aptidon: where is it located?
Stade El Hadj Hassan Gouled Aptidon is located in Djibouti.
Stade El Hadj Hassan Gouled Aptidon: what is there to see?
Highlights include Theatre des Salines lmsrH lmlH@, Centre Culturel Institut Francais Arthur Rimbaud lmrkz lthqfy lm`hd lfrnsy arthr rmbw, Cathedrale Notre-Dame du Bon-Pasteur - ktdry'y@ lsyd@ l`dhr lr`y lSlH.
Stade El Hadj Hassan Gouled Aptidon: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Stade El Hadj Hassan Gouled Aptidon: why is it worth visiting?
The Stade El Hadj Hassan Gouled Aptidon is the preeminent sporting venue in Djibouti, serving as the country's national stadium.
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