1. Entry Requirements & Documents

Entry conditions are unpredictable

Sudan’s entry, exit, visa, airport, land-border and internal-travel conditions are highly unpredictable. Armed conflict, territorial control, roadblocks, airport closures, fuel shortages, humanitarian conditions and changing administrative rules can affect travellers without warning.

A visa, invitation letter or flight booking does not guarantee safe entry, freedom of movement, access to accommodation or the ability to leave Sudan. Tourism travel should not be attempted.

Visa requirements

Most foreign nationals require a visa before travelling to Sudan. Visa procedures may involve an invitation letter, sponsorship, approvals, passport documents, accommodation details and local registration. Procedures and issuing authorities can change due to the conflict.

• Travel only if the purpose is essential and legally authorised.
• Confirm visa requirements directly with the responsible Sudanese diplomatic authority.
• Do not rely on informal agents, social-media claims or unverified websites.
• Do not buy non-refundable travel based solely on informal visa assurances.
• Expect registration requirements, security checks and restrictions on internal movement.
• Do not assume that a visa permits travel throughout Sudan.

Essential authorised travel only

Essential travel for humanitarian, diplomatic, media, family or other unavoidable purposes should only occur with specialist legal advice, professional security planning, medical contingency arrangements, employer approval and verified local contacts.

• Valid passport, visa and written entry approval.
• Verified host organisation, sponsor or local contact.
• Professional security, medical, communications and evacuation plan.
• Written insurance confirmation, if any coverage can be obtained.
• Medical records, prescription documentation and emergency contacts.
• Paper copies of all permits, travel documents and contingency plans.
• Cash-management and sanctions-compliance plan for essential work travel.

Customs and restricted items

Sudan has strict laws concerning weapons, drones, satellite devices, political material, alcohol, drugs, religious content, media equipment and certain medicines. Penalties can be severe, and legal procedures may not meet international expectations.

• Do not carry weapons, drones, satellite equipment or security devices without formal authorisation.
• Do not bring alcohol, illegal drugs or prohibited medicines.
• Carry prescription medication only in original packaging with a doctor’s letter.
• Do not bring political or religious material that authorities could interpret as hostile.
• Do not photograph military sites, checkpoints, airports, police, security forces or government buildings.
• Do not remove archaeological objects, fossils, artefacts or cultural items from Sudan.

2. Health, Vaccinations & Insurance

Severe healthcare limitations

Sudan’s healthcare system has been severely affected by conflict, displacement, shortages, infrastructure damage and humanitarian crisis. Hospitals and clinics may lack staff, medicines, blood products, electricity, clean water, diagnostic equipment and emergency transport.

Medical evacuation can be delayed or impossible because of conflict, closed airports, roadblocks, lack of secure transport, fuel shortages and limited access to receiving hospitals.

Travel health insurance

Standard travel insurance is likely to exclude Sudan because of armed conflict, official “Do Not Travel” warnings, terrorism, kidnapping, civil unrest and evacuation limitations. Do not assume that credit-card insurance or ordinary travel cover is valid.

• Obtain written confirmation from the insurer before essential travel.
• Check exclusions for war, terrorism, kidnapping, detention, civil unrest and medical evacuation.
• Confirm whether evacuation is realistically available from your planned location.
• Do not rely on a policy where secure medical transport or receiving hospitals are unavailable.
• Essential work travel requires specialist medical and security support.

Health risks

• Limited access to safe water, sanitation, medicine and hospital care.
• Malaria risk in many areas, particularly during and after rainy periods.
• Yellow fever risk and possible vaccination requirements based on travel history.
• Cholera, dengue, measles and other infectious-disease risks in humanitarian settings.
• Extreme heat, dehydration, dust exposure and heatstroke.
• Injury risk from armed conflict, unexploded ordnance, mines, damaged roads and buildings.

Vaccinations and medicines

Routine vaccinations should be current. Essential authorised travellers should seek individual advice from a specialist travel-medicine clinic about yellow fever, malaria prevention, hepatitis, typhoid, meningitis and other risks. Carry all medication and medical supplies needed for the entire stay.

General health information: World Health Organization: Sudan Country Profile.

3. Safety & Travel Advisories

Critical security situation

Sudan is affected by armed conflict, airstrikes, shelling, terrorism, violent crime, kidnapping, civil unrest, humanitarian collapse, roadblocks, landmines and major infrastructure disruption. The security environment can change rapidly in any city or region.

Major governments advise against all travel. The United States cites armed conflict, civil unrest, crime, terrorism, kidnapping and limited ability to provide emergency services. The United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, Germany and Austria similarly warn against travel.

Major risks

• Armed conflict, airstrikes, shelling and fighting in urban and rural areas.
• Kidnapping, arbitrary detention, armed robbery and violent crime.
• Roadblocks, checkpoints, curfews and restricted movement.
• Landmines and unexploded ordnance, especially in former conflict areas and near borders.
• Airport closures, flight cancellations and limited evacuation routes.
• Weak medical response, power shortages, water shortages and disrupted communications.
• Targeting of public infrastructure, foreign interests, aid organisations and transport routes.

Guidance for persons already in Sudan

• Follow instructions from your embassy, employer, humanitarian organisation and professional security provider.
• Do not travel independently between cities, states or rural areas.
• Do not travel after dark unless required under a formal security plan.
• Avoid demonstrations, public gatherings, military sites, checkpoints and border zones.
• Maintain a low profile and do not share locations, routes or local contacts online.
• Keep water, medicine, food, cash, power supplies and documents ready.
• Do not assume commercial flights, roads or border crossings will be open when you need to leave.

Darfur, border regions and remote areas

Darfur, border regions, areas near South Sudan, the Red Sea region, the west and remote desert areas can have distinct security risks, armed-group activity and limited humanitarian or consular access. Do not travel to these areas without specialist official approval and professional security support.

Official travel warnings

• United States: Sudan Level 4 Travel Advisory
• United Kingdom: Sudan Travel Advice
• Australia: Sudan Travel Advice
• Canada: Sudan Travel Advice
• Germany: Sudan Travel and Security Advice
• Austria: Sudan Travel Information

4. Emergency & Important Numbers

No reliable nationwide emergency system

Sudan does not currently have a reliable nationwide emergency response system comparable to 112, 911 or 999. Police, ambulance, fire and rescue services may be unavailable, delayed or unable to operate because of conflict, infrastructure damage, lack of fuel and security conditions.

Essential authorised travellers must rely on professional security, medical and evacuation arrangements rather than public emergency telephone numbers.

Possible local contacts

• Police: 999 may operate in some locations.
• Fire service: 998 may operate in some locations.
• Ambulance: 333 or local hospital contacts may apply, but availability cannot be assumed.
• Sudanese Red Crescent Society: Contact availability and operations vary by location.

These numbers may not function reliably. Response time, geographic coverage and English-language support cannot be assumed. Do not use them as your only emergency plan.

United States emergency contacts

The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum suspended operations in 2023. The United States cannot provide routine or emergency consular services inside Sudan. U.S. citizens should contact the U.S. Department of State or the designated regional mission.

• U.S. Department of State emergency support from the United States and Canada: +1 888 407 4747.
• U.S. Department of State emergency support from outside the United States and Canada: +1 202 501 4444.
• U.S. Sudan emergency email: Diese E-Mail-Adresse ist vor Spambots geschützt! Zur Anzeige muss JavaScript eingeschaltet sein..

Official U.S. guidance: U.S. Department of State: Sudan Travel Advisory.

Emergency planning checklist for essential authorised personnel

• Have a written security, medical, communications and evacuation plan before entry.
• Maintain 24-hour contact with an approved security provider or responsible organisation.
• Carry passports, visas, money, medicine, water, food and backup power supplies.
• Pre-identify secure accommodation, transport, medical contacts and emergency communications procedures.
• Agree check-in schedules and missed-contact procedures with your organisation and family.
• Do not depend on public emergency services, commercial flights or embassies for immediate rescue.

5. Embassies & Consulates

Consular assistance is extremely limited

Many embassies in Sudan have closed, suspended operations or withdrawn staff. Consular support inside Sudan may be unavailable. Do not travel on the assumption that a foreign government can arrange evacuation, rescue or immediate emergency assistance.

United States

The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum suspended operations in 2023. U.S. citizens needing help should follow State Department instructions and contact regional missions as directed.

• U.S. Department of State: Sudan Travel Advisory
• U.S. Embassy Cairo

United Kingdom, Germany, Austria, Australia and Canada

The United Kingdom, Germany, Austria, Australia and Canada have limited or no ability to provide consular support inside Sudan. Citizens should consult their official foreign ministries and responsible regional embassy before any essential travel.

• United Kingdom: Getting Help in Sudan
• Germany: Sudan Travel Advice
• Australia: Sudan Travel Advice
• Canada: Sudan Travel Advice
• Austria: Sudan Travel Information

6. Background on Sudan & Society

Country overview

Sudan is located in north-east Africa and borders Egypt, Libya, Chad, the Central African Republic, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea and the Red Sea. The Nile and its tributaries shape much of the country’s geography, history and settlement patterns.

Sudan has a long cultural history involving ancient Nubian kingdoms, Kushite civilisation, Islamic scholarship, Arab and African cultural exchange, desert nomadic traditions and Red Sea trade. Its archaeological heritage includes the pyramids and temples of Meroe, Jebel Barkal and other Nile Valley sites.

Language, religion and culture

• Official languages: Arabic and English.
• Other languages: Nubian, Beja, Fur, Nuba and many other local languages are spoken.
• Religion: Islam is the largest religion, with Christian and traditional communities also present.
• Culture: Sudan combines Arab, Nubian, African, Islamic, desert, Nile Valley and Red Sea traditions.
• Hospitality: Tea, coffee, food, respectful greetings and family ties are important in many communities.

Important context for visitors

Sudan’s archaeological and cultural heritage should not be romanticised in a way that ignores the current conflict and humanitarian crisis. Foreign travel can endanger local communities, drivers, guides, humanitarian workers and security personnel. Leisure tourism is not appropriate under current conditions.

7. Climate, Weather & Clothing

Climate

Sudan has predominantly hot, dry desert and semi-desert conditions in the north and central regions, while southern and western areas can have a more tropical rainy season. Temperatures can be extreme, and weather can worsen already difficult travel conditions.

Seasonal considerations

• Dry season: Generally November to May in many areas, with hot days and cooler desert nights.
• Rainy season: Usually June to September in southern and western regions, with flooding and road disruption.
• Desert north: Very hot and dry, with significant day-night temperature differences.
• Red Sea coast: Hot and humid, particularly in summer.

Clothing guidance for essential authorised travel

• Wear modest, culturally appropriate clothing.
• Use lightweight long sleeves and trousers for sun and dust protection.
• Carry strong sun protection, water and electrolyte supplies.
• Bring warm layers for desert nights and air-conditioned flights.
• Wear sturdy boots for damaged roads, desert terrain and remote travel.
• Follow employer and security-provider guidance on protective equipment.

Weather and environmental hazards

• Extreme heat, dehydration and heatstroke.
• Dust storms and poor visibility.
• Flooding and washed-out roads during rainy periods.
• Mosquito-borne disease and tropical health risks in wetter areas.
• Limited water, fuel, communications and medical support in remote areas.

8. Language & Communication

Languages

• Official languages: Arabic and English.
• English: Limited outside some business, diplomatic and humanitarian settings.

Useful Arabic phrases

• Hello: Marhaba / As-salamu alaykum
• Thank you: Shukran
• Please: Min fadlak for a man / Min fadlik for a woman
• Yes: Na'am
• No: La
• Excuse me: Afwan
• Help: Musa'ada
• Emergency: Taware'

Communications and internet

Mobile networks, electricity, internet access and communications can be unreliable, restricted or disrupted by conflict, infrastructure damage, power shortages and local controls. Essential personnel should use lawful, organisation-approved communications systems.

• Do not rely on normal mobile data, public Wi-Fi or roaming for emergency communication.
• Carry printed contacts, offline maps and backup power.
• Assume that communications may be monitored or interrupted.
• Do not publish routes, accommodation locations or local contacts online.
• Follow employer guidance on satellite devices and secure communication.

9. Voltage & Plug Types

Electricity in Sudan

• Voltage: Usually 230 V.
• Frequency: Usually 50 Hz.
• Plug types: Type C and Type D may be found, with variation by building and region.

Practical electricity advice

Electricity supply can be unreliable or unavailable because of conflict, infrastructure damage and fuel shortages. Essential authorised travellers should use organisation-approved backup power, charging and lighting systems.

• Bring a universal adapter where travel is essential and legal.
• Carry power banks, spare cables and backup lights.
• Do not assume reliable charging, refrigeration, internet or air conditioning.
• Follow security-provider rules for generators, fuel and power equipment.

10. Money & Finances

Currency

Sudan’s official currency is the Sudanese pound (SDG). Banking access, exchange rates, cash availability and payment services can vary sharply by location and security situation.

Payments and banking limitations

• International credit and debit cards may not work reliably.
• Foreign ATMs should not be assumed to be available or functional.
• Cash is important, but carrying large amounts creates substantial security risk.
• Banking, currency exchange and money-transfer services may be restricted or disrupted.
• Essential work travel should follow employer cash-management, legal and security procedures.
• Use authorised banks and legal financial channels only.

Sanctions and legal compliance

International sanctions, anti-money-laundering rules, export controls and local regulations can affect payments, insurance, equipment, financial transfers and commercial activity. Seek specialist legal advice before essential work-related travel or transactions involving Sudan.

11. Transport & Arrival

Transport conditions are unstable

Airports, roads, ports, railways and internal travel routes can be disrupted, closed or unsafe because of conflict, damaged infrastructure, roadblocks, fuel shortages, weather and local control. Do not assume that commercial transport will remain available when you need to leave.

Main airports

• Khartoum International Airport (KRT): Main airport for the capital, operational status subject to conflict and closure risk.
• Port Sudan New International Airport (PZU): Key Red Sea airport, subject to changing security and operational conditions.
• Other regional airports: Access, schedules and security conditions can change without notice.

Internal travel

• Road travel can involve checkpoints, fighting, damaged roads, fuel shortages and security restrictions.
• Do not travel independently between cities, states or remote areas.
• Use only professionally managed vehicles, drivers and security plans for essential movement.
• Avoid travel after dark unless required under a formal security plan.
• Do not use informal transport providers for high-risk routes.
• Do not rely on domestic flights, buses, trains or borders as evacuation options.

Border crossings

Land-border crossings with Egypt, Chad, the Central African Republic, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea and Libya can be subject to sudden closures, restrictions, conflict and changing documentation requirements. Do not travel to a border crossing without verified professional planning and current official confirmation.

12. Accommodation & Practical Information

Accommodation is not normal tourism infrastructure

Accommodation, water, power, security, medical support, communications and food supply can vary dramatically. Essential authorised travellers should use accommodation vetted by their employer, humanitarian organisation or professional security provider.

• Do not book accommodation for leisure travel while high-level warnings remain in force.
• Use secure, approved accommodation for essential work travel.
• Confirm safe water, backup power, communications, medical support and evacuation arrangements.
• Do not disclose accommodation locations publicly.
• Expect curfews, movement restrictions and supply interruptions.

Practical supplies

• Water, food, fuel, medicine, cash and power supplies may be limited.
• Do not rely on shops, pharmacies, banks or transport services operating normally.
• Essential missions should maintain approved contingency supplies.
• Follow humanitarian, security and local-authority guidance for procurement and movement.

13. Food, Drink & Cuisine

Sudanese culinary heritage

Sudanese cuisine reflects Nile Valley, Nubian, Arab, African, Ottoman and regional influences. Sorghum, millet, beans, bread, peanuts, meat, fish, spices and tea are important staples. This section is cultural background only and is not a recommendation for leisure travel under current conditions.

Typical Sudanese dishes

• Ful medames: Slow-cooked fava beans, often eaten for breakfast.
• Kisra: Thin fermented sorghum flatbread.
• Asida: Starchy porridge served with meat, vegetable or peanut-based sauces.
• Gorasa: Flatbread served with stews.
• Shaiyah: Grilled or fried meat dish, often lamb or beef.
• Shorba: Soups made with lentils, meat or vegetables.
• Sudanese tea and coffee: Strong, sweet drinks central to hospitality.

Food and water safety

Essential authorised travellers should follow strict medical and organisational protocols. Safe water, refrigeration, sanitation and reliable food supply cannot be assumed.

• Drink sealed, treated or professionally supplied water only.
• Eat freshly cooked food from vetted providers.
• Carry emergency nutrition and medical supplies where required.
• Do not assume hotel or restaurant food is safe without appropriate safeguards.

14. Time Zone & Public Holidays

Time zone

• Time zone: Central Africa Time, UTC+2.
• Daylight saving time: Sudan does not observe daylight saving time.
• Difference from Central Europe: One hour ahead of Germany, Austria and Switzerland during Central European winter time, and the same time during Central European Summer Time.
• Difference from the United Kingdom: Two hours ahead in UK winter and one hour ahead during British Summer Time.

Important public and religious holidays

• New Year’s Day: 1 January.
• Independence Day: 1 January.
• Revolution Day: 19 December.
• Christmas Day: 25 December.
• Eid al-Fitr: Date changes annually according to the Islamic calendar.
• Eid al-Adha: Date changes annually.
• Islamic New Year: Date changes annually.
• Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday: Date changes annually.

Conflict, security restrictions, road access and humanitarian conditions have a far greater impact on travel and services than standard holiday schedules. Do not use holiday calendars as a basis for travel planning.

15. Attractions & Highlights

Cultural and natural heritage

Sudan has globally important archaeological, cultural and natural sites. However, these locations are not appropriate for leisure travel under current conflict conditions. This section is included for cultural context only.

• Meroe: UNESCO World Heritage site with pyramids of the ancient Kingdom of Kush.
• Jebel Barkal and the Napatan Region: UNESCO-listed temples, pyramids and Nubian heritage near Karima.
• Old Dongola: Ancient Nile Valley archaeological site.
• Suakin: Historic Red Sea port with Ottoman-era coral-stone buildings.
• Port Sudan: Red Sea coastline, marine environments and diving heritage.
• Nubian Nile Valley: Desert, river landscapes and traditional communities.
• Dinder National Park: Savanna and wetland wildlife area, subject to major access and security limitations.

Do not travel for sightseeing

Cultural importance does not make a destination safe. Travel can endanger visitors, local communities, guides, heritage workers, humanitarian staff and security personnel. Do not attempt leisure travel while official warnings remain against all travel.

16. Nightlife & Events

Not applicable for tourism

Sudan does not currently have a predictable or safe tourism nightlife environment. Armed conflict, curfews, weak infrastructure, legal restrictions and limited public services override conventional travel planning.

Essential personnel should follow strict security rules concerning accommodation, movement, public venues, photography, communications and local contacts.

17. Media & Further Links

Official travel warnings

• United States: Sudan Level 4 – Do Not Travel
• United Kingdom: Sudan Travel Advice
• Australia: Sudan Travel Advice
• Canada: Sudan Travel Advice
• Germany: Sudan Travel and Security Advice
• Austria: Sudan Travel Information

Health and humanitarian information

• World Health Organization: Sudan Country Profile
• United Nations OCHA: Sudan
• UNICEF Sudan
• World Food Programme: Sudan
• International Committee of the Red Cross: Sudan

Consular and security information

• U.S. Department of State: Sudan Travel Advisory and Emergency Information
• United Kingdom: Getting Help in Sudan

Maps, images, video and news

• Google Maps: Sudan
• Image Search: Sudan Cultural Heritage
• YouTube: Sudan Documentaries
• Google News: Sudan

Reliable news and analysis

• Reuters: Africa News
• BBC News: Africa
• International Crisis Group: Sudan