Over 90% of the population in Djibouti is Muslim. Islamic customs influence daily behavior, social interaction and dress codes. Please note that immodesty in dress and behavior is frowned upon. Drinking, smoking or eating in public during Ramadan, the month of fasting, is forbidden for all, including visitors. There is a small population of Christians, mostly of French origin.
Alcohol is not widely available, nor is drinking a social activity in this Islamic country. The Djibouti alternative to standard intoxication is a plant known as qat that is grown in the Highlands and acts as a mild stimulant.
Djibouti Franc (DJF; symbol Djf) = 100 centimes. Notes are in denominations of Djf10,000, 5,000, 2,000, 1,000 and 500. Coins are in denominations of Djf500, 100, 50, 20 and 10.