Sudan Travel Risk Guide

Introduction

Sudan is a large Northeast African country bordered by Egypt, Libya, Chad, the Central African Republic, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Eritrea, with a coastline along the Red Sea. It is known for its ancient archaeological sites, the Nile River, and its strategic location linking North Africa, the Horn of Africa, and the Sahel.

In 2026, Sudan presents an extremely high travel risk environment, with widespread armed conflict, severe humanitarian challenges, and significant disruption to essential services. Key risks include armed conflict, terrorism, violent crime, kidnapping, civil unrest, unexploded ordnance, infrastructure collapse, and extremely limited healthcare availability.

Country Overview

• Capital: Khartoum (administrative functions remain significantly affected by the conflict)

• Key Cities: Khartoum, Port Sudan, Omdurman, Kassala, Nyala

• Population: ~50 million

• Language: Arabic and English

• Currency: Sudanese Pound (SDG)

• Region: North-East Africa

Sudan continues to experience one of the world's most significant humanitarian and security crises, with armed conflict affecting large parts of the country.

Travel & Entry

Passports

A valid passport is required for entry.

Visas

• Most travellers require a visa before arrival

• Entry procedures may change with limited notice

• Additional documentation may be required depending on the point of entry

Entry Considerations

• Airport operations and border crossings may be disrupted or closed due to conflict

• Entry requirements can change rapidly

• Consular assistance may be severely limited

• Commercial transport options remain restricted

Local Travel

Road Travel

• Road travel is extremely hazardous

• Active conflict, checkpoints, and damaged infrastructure affect movement

• Major routes may become inaccessible without warning

• Travel outside secured areas carries significant risk

Public Transport

• Public transportation has been heavily disrupted

• Services may be unreliable or unavailable

• Security conditions frequently affect movement

• Private transport does not eliminate security risks

Air Travel

• Airport operations remain subject to disruption

• Commercial flights may be suspended or significantly reduced

• Flight availability can change with little notice

Travel Risk Overview

Crime

Sudan is a very high crime-risk destination.

• Armed robbery and violent crime occur

• Kidnapping is a significant concern

• Criminal activity often increases during periods of instability

• Foreign nationals may face elevated risks

Security Environment

Security concerns are the primary travel risk.

Key points:

• Widespread armed conflict continues across multiple regions

• Fighting can occur with little or no warning

• Civilian infrastructure has been significantly affected

• Unexploded ordnance and conflict-related hazards remain present in some areas

Civil Unrest

• Armed conflict has disrupted normal public life

• Political instability remains severe

• Curfews and movement restrictions may be imposed

• Public services may be unavailable in affected areas

Infrastructure & Health

Infrastructure has been severely impacted by the ongoing conflict.

• Healthcare services are extremely limited

• Many medical facilities are damaged, closed, or operating with reduced capacity

• Utilities and communications are frequently disrupted

• Emergency response capabilities are severely constrained

Key considerations:

• Humanitarian conditions vary significantly by region

• Medical evacuation may not always be possible

• Food, fuel, and essential supplies may be limited

• Disease outbreaks remain a concern in some areas

Key Considerations

• Avoid all non-essential travel

• Conduct comprehensive security assessments before any essential travel

• Develop detailed evacuation and contingency plans

• Maintain continuous contact with trusted local partners

• Ensure specialist security, medical, and evacuation support arrangements

Is Sudan Safe to Travel?

Sudan is considered an extremely high-risk travel destination.

Strengths include:

• Strategic regional importance

• Significant historical and cultural heritage

• Long-term economic potential

Primary risks include:

• Widespread armed conflict

• Violent crime and kidnapping

• Humanitarian crisis

• Infrastructure collapse

• Extremely limited healthcare and emergency services

Overall, Sudan is assessed as an extremely high-risk destination, where only essential travel should be considered, and only with specialist security support, extensive preparation, and continuous monitoring.

Access to Real-Time Information

This overview reflects baseline conditions. Real-time monitoring is essential for:

• Armed conflict and frontline developments

• Airport and border operational status

• Security incidents and evacuation advisories

• Humanitarian and public health updates

• Transport and infrastructure disruptions