How to say happy birthday in Somali
Dhalasho wacan
Say it like this: dha-LA-sho WAH-an
To say happy birthday in Somali, you say "Dhalasho wacan". Somali is spoken in Somalia, Djibouti, parts of Ethiopia and Kenya, and by large communities around the world, including the UK. Here is how to say it, and other kind ways to send your wishes.
"Dhalasho" means birth or birthday, and "wacan" means good or pleasant. So the phrase means "a good birthday".
Other ways to say happy birthday in Somali
- Dhalasho wanaagsanSay it like this: dha-LA-sho wah-NAAG-sanAlso means "a good birthday". Just as friendly, and fine for anyone.
- Hambalyo!Say it like this: ham-BAL-yoMeans "congratulations!". Used for birthdays, weddings, new babies and other good news.
- Dhalasho farxad lehSay it like this: dha-LA-sho FAR-had lehMeans "a birthday full of joy". Warm and friendly, nice for close friends and family.
- Noloshaada ha dheeraatoSay it like this: no-lo-SHAA-da ha dhee-RAA-toMeans "may your life be long". A kind wish to add after the greeting.
The Happy Birthday song in Somali
Happy birthday to you,
happy birthday to you,
happy birthday dear [name],
happy birthday to you.
There is no single well known Somali version of the song. At parties, families usually sing it in English, then add "Dhalasho wacan!" at the end.
Birthday customs
- In Somalia, birthdays were not traditionally a big celebration. Religious days such as Eid were, and still are, the main family festivals.
- Many older Somalis do not know their exact date of birth, so official papers often show 1 January as their birthday.
- In cities and in Somali communities abroad, birthday parties with cake and candles are now common, especially for children.
A quick tip
In Somali spelling, the letter "c" is not a k or s sound. It is a soft sound made deep in the throat. If you find it hard, just say the vowel next to it and people will understand you.
Questions people ask
How do you say happy birthday in Somali to a friend?
Say "Dhalasho wacan!". You can add "Hambalyo!" for extra warmth.
Do Somali families celebrate birthdays?
Some do and some do not. It depends on the family. A kind message is almost always welcome, even if there is no party.
Is there a Somali word for congratulations?
Yes. "Hambalyo" means congratulations. You can say it on its own or before "Dhalasho wacan" for a warm, full wish.
What do you say back?
Say "Mahadsanid!" (ma-had-SA-nid), which means thank you.
Wish someone happy birthday in Somali
Type their name, and we will turn it into a birthday surprise in Somali: a gift box to open, confetti, their name in gold and the birthday song. Then send it by WhatsApp, text or email. It is free.