MOGADISHU— Somalia’s Civil Aviation Authority has announced a full suspension of operations at Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport on Thursday, 25 December, citing security and administrative preparations linked to an anticipated election in the capital.

In an official notice, the Authority said the temporary shutdown is intended to facilitate special arrangements required for the day’s vote. The directive was circulated to airlines operating to and from Mogadishu, as well as ticketing and travel agencies, with instructions to notify passengers and take appropriate operational measures.

The airport closure comes amid a broader set of restrictions planned for the capital. Somalia’s Ministry of Education has also issued a separate decision ordering the closure of schools nationwide on Thursday, attributing the move to the same election-related considerations.

Somali Police, meanwhile, have said major roads in Mogadishu will be closed on Thursday, alongside reinforced security measures across the city.

Officials have urged residents to cooperate with security authorities and to plan ahead for temporary disruptions to movement and public services during the day.