Sudan

Emergency phone numbers

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes and providing emergency services. Emergency services and the telephone network are unreliable. 

• Dial 999 to report crimes to local police.

Phone service

• Cellular phones are common. Other telephone service is unreliable. Landlines are nearly non-existent.
• It may be possible to purchase a SIM card locally. Use a U.S. cell phone that is compatible with local cellular networks.
• Check for compatibility with local cellular networks with your phone carrier or manufacturer before you go.
• During armed conflict and civil unrest, Sudanese authorities sometimes cut all telecommunications for extended periods of time. Keep alternate means of communication as a backup.

Armed conflict

• Since 2023, Sudan has suffered from armed conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and their allied militias. These groups continue to battle, particularly in the southern, central, and western areas of the country. They use military-grade weapons and aerial attacks. Many civilians have been killed and wounded in the conflict.
• Areas where active conflict has decreased still have unexploded ordnance, landmines, and other explosive objects of war. This includes the Khartoum, Darfur, and Kordofan regions, as well as many other states.
• Border closures may occur without notice.
• Intercommunal and intracommunal clashes can occur throughout the country. They can result in the declaration of localized states of emergency. Civilians have been killed.  Government and security installations have been attacked during clashes.

Blue Nile and Kordofan regions

These areas include Blue Nile, Sennar, and White Nile states. They also include the Abyei region, as well as North Kordofan, South Kordofan, and West Kordofan states.

• These regions continue to face violent conflict between competing armed groups.
• Aerial attacks and unprovoked attacks on civilians may occur.
• Banditry and intercommunal violence are common.
• Armed actors may transit Sudan’s borders with South Sudan and Ethiopia. The Abyei region, bordering West Kordofan state, remains disputed between Sudan and South Sudan.

Darfur region

• Darfur continues to experience violent conflict between competing armed groups.
• Aerial attacks and unprovoked attacks on civilians may occur.
• Crime, looting, and conflict over economic resources like land, gold, and livestock are common.
• Attacks on camps for internally displaced persons have resulted in fatalities.
• Armed actors may transit Sudan’s borders with Chad and the Central African Republic.

Eastern Sudan

This region includes Kassala, Gedaref, and Red Sea states.

• The region has experienced air attacks as recently as May 2025.
• Incidents of crime across Sudan’s borders with Ethiopia and Eritrea have occurred. This includes kidnapping.
• Human traffickers and organized crime syndicates operate along these borders.
• Stay on major roads if you are traveling by vehicle. There are potential landmines and other explosive objects of war.

Landmines

• Exercise caution in all current or former conflict areas, including Khartoum, due to landmines and unexploded ordnance.
• Stay on main roads marked as cleared by a competent de-mining authority.

Terrorism

Terrorists and their supporters may target U.S. citizens abroad.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains)
• Commercial flights

Demonstrations

• Small gatherings and demonstrations can occur with no warning. They may turn violent.
• Police and security forces may step in to clear protesters. They can use tear gas and, at times, live ammo. This usually happens near important government sites or when movement is blocked.
• Protests and demonstrations have caused major disruptions in telecommunications. In some cases, airports have closed. This makes it hard for U.S. citizens to talk to friends and family or leave the country.
• Historical anniversaries and conflict-related events can spark protests. Calls for justice may also play a role.
• Economic grievances, including the lack of food, cooking oil, and fuel, can lead to demonstrations.

Safety tips:

• Demonstrations can be unpredictable. Avoid areas around protests and other demonstrations.
• Follow the advice of local authorities.
• Maintain several days’ supply of food and water. Stay indoors until the demonstration has passed.
• Keep a low profile and follow all curfews.
• Have alternate means of communication. Disruptions to telecommunication services and electricity are frequent.

Crime

Common crimes include kidnapping, assault, armed robbery, looting, home invasion, and carjacking.

• In Khartoum, home invasion, pickpocketing, purse snatching, theft from vehicles, and other petty crime occurs. There is also a risk of kidnapping. Expatriates are not generally targeted for crime in Khartoum. But they may be caught in a “wrong place, wrong time” situation.
• Elsewhere in Sudan, particularly in the Darfur region, assault, armed robbery, kidnapping, carjacking, and looting are common. Victims may be targeted based on perceived wealth or affiliation. Aid workers continue to be affected by such crimes.
• Banditry is prevalent throughout Sudan. It is common in the Darfur and Chad–Sudan border regions. Several incidents have resulted in deaths.
• Sexual assault and rape are widespread in armed conflict areas.

Scams

Follow the Department of State guidelines to protect yourself from scams.

If you are a victim of a scam, learn how the FBI can help.

Financial scams are common in Sudan. Be careful of anyone asking for money, especially those who start a "romantic" relationship online or claim local authorities want money. Scams often begin through online posts, emails, or letters. Scammers often pretend to be U.S. citizens in need of help.

Common scams include:

• People claiming to be U.S. government personnel
• People claiming to be detained or hospitalized abroad
• Romance and online dating
• Money transfers
• Grandparent and relative targeting
• Free trip or luggage
• Lotteries
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits and job offers

Victims of crime

Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes. You may report crimes to the local police by dialing 999.

Review our information for Victims of Crime.

The U.S. Embassy in Cairo (or another U.S. embassy or consulate) can:

• Replace a stolen or lost passport.
• Help you find medical care.
• Assist you in how to report a crime to the police.
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• Provide general information regarding the criminal justice system.
• Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorney.
• Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Help you find accommodation and options to travel home.

Sexual assault and domestic violence

• U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Department of State for assistance.
• U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the U.S. Department of State for assistance.

Technology use abroad

Mobile devices are vulnerable to compromise, theft, and damage anywhere in the world. Follow these safe practices:

• Update all software (operating system and apps) before leaving the United States.
• Use reputable, U.S.-based VPN or VoIP applications.
• Do not connect to public Wi-Fi networks.
• Be cautious using dating apps abroad, as scammers often target U.S. citizens.
• Attempting to import drones, satellite phones, or other technology that could be used to support armed groups may attract the attention of authorities, regardless of whether they are technically illegal or restricted.

GPS

Prior to using GPS abroad:

• Research the route recommended by the GPS to make sure it is safe.
• The fastest path may not be the safest.

Tourism safety

No formal tourism industry infrastructure is in place.

• Tourists participate in activities at their own risk.
• Emergency response and medical treatment are not available.
• U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.
• Review our information on Travel Insurance.

Criminal penalties

U.S. citizens must follow local laws. If you break local laws, even by mistake, you could be deported, arrested, or imprisoned.

• Convictions for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs can result in long jail sentences and big fines.
• The consumption of alcohol is allowed in diplomatic facilities, but regulations and enforcement remain unclear.
• The police may detain you for questioning if you are unable to show an acceptable form of identification.
• Before you start a business or a profession in Sudan, seek information from the local authorities about what permits or licenses are required.
• You may be prosecuted in the United States for crimes committed abroad regardless of the local law. Review the information provided by the U.S. Department of Justice about crimes against minors abroad.

Sharia Law and customs

Personal status laws govern legal procedures pertaining to family relations, including marriage, divorce, child custody, maintenance (financial support), and inheritance.

• Seek local legal counsel if you must engage in local legal matters. Make sure you are aware of your rights and responsibilities.
• Some national laws reflect a sharia system of jurisprudence.
• Non-Muslims are sometimes convicted of offenses based on officials’ interpretation of Islamic law.
• The government enacted legislation in July 2020 that removed flogging as a punishment for criminal and civil crimes. However, flogging remains a common sentence for hudud. These are punishments mandated under Islamic law for serious offenses.
• Non-Muslim women are not expected to wear a veil or cover their heads.
• Both women and men should dress modestly. Shorts are not appropriate.
• Public displays of affection are discouraged.
• Pornography is not permitted.
• Government offices and businesses follow an Islamic workweek (Sunday to Thursday).
• Do not take photographs of any areas that may be sensitive to the government. This includes police and military installations, camps for internally displaced persons, and border areas.

Photography

• Photography in SAF-controlled regions requires a permit from the External Information Center in the Ministry of Information. Photography in other areas may require permission from the controlling authorities there.
• Even with a permit, it is illegal to take pictures of military installations, public utilities, and infrastructure like bridges or airports.
• You cannot photograph slum areas or beggars.
• Do not take photographs of government buildings using any equipment with cameras. This includes cell phone cameras and laptops.
• You may face fines, confiscation of your photographic equipment without notice, detention, and arrest.
• Do not take photos of Sudanese people without their permission.

Arrest notification

If you are arrested or detained, ask officials to notify the U.S. Embassy in Cairo at +20-2-2797-3300.

Dual U.S.-Sudanese nationals will be prosecuted as Sudanese citizens. We are unable to provide consular services.

Counterfeit and pirated goods

Counterfeit and pirated goods are common in many destinations.

• They may be illegal according to local laws.
• Counterfeit and pirated goods may pose significant risks to consumer health and safety.
• You may be subject to fines or have to surrender counterfeit and pirated goods to authorities if you bring them back to the United States.

Learn more about U.S. restrictions on counterfeit and pirated goods:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• U.S. Department of Justice

Faith-based travelers

Faith-based travel includes pilgrimages, service projects, and mission work. Prepare for your travel using these resources:

• Faith-Based Travel
• Volunteering Abroad
• International Religious Freedom Reports

Gay and lesbian travelers

• Homosexuality is not illegal in Sudan, but sodomy is. It is punishable by 5 years in jail for an initial offense.
• Gay and lesbian people are not considered a protected class under antidiscrimination laws.
• Negative sentiment toward same-sex sexual relations is still common in society.
• Gay and lesbian organizations have alleged being pressured to alter their activities due to threat of harm.
• There have been no reports of official action to investigate or punish those complicit in alleged discrimination or abuses.
• Review our information for Gay and Lesbian Travelers.

Travelers with disabilities or accessibility needs

• The law in Sudan prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities, but the law is not widely enforced.
• Expect accessibility to be extremely limited in public transportation, lodging, communication/information, and general infrastructure.
• There are few sidewalks and no curb-cuts, and most buildings lack functioning elevators.
• There are no negative cultural norms or public sentiment around disability, but resources are limited.
• Review our information on Accessibility Needs.

Students

• Review our information on Studying Abroad.

Women travelers

• Early and forced marriage of children continues.
• Female Genital Mutilation and Cutting (FGM/C) is common even though it’s illegal.
• Spousal abuse is common.
• Women who file claims of domestic violence face accusations of spreading false information, harassment, and detention.
• Police normally do not intervene in domestic disputes.
• Rape is a serious problem throughout the country, especially in conflict areas. 
• Review our information for Women Travelers.
• Review our information on Marriage.
• Review our information on Female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C).
• Review our information for Victims of Crime.

Human rights

There have been credible reports of:

• Extrajudicial, unlawful, or arbitrary killings
• Disappearances
• Torture or cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment
• Arbitrary arrest or detention
• Serious abuses, including sexual, in a conflict
• Unlawful recruitment or use of children in armed conflict by the SAF and the RSF
• Serious restrictions on freedom of expression and media freedom
• Trafficking in persons, including forced labor
• Prohibiting independent trade unions or significant or systematic restrictions on workers’ freedom of association
• Significant presence of any of the worst forms of child labor

The government has not taken credible steps or actions to identify and punish officials who commit human rights abuses.

Journalists can view information about the risks of practicing journalism abroad.

Review the Department of State’s Human Rights Report for your destination prior to traveling.

Emergency phone numbers

• Emergency medical numbers are not in service in Sudan.

Ambulance services

Ambulance services are:

• Not present or unreliable in most areas.
• Not equipped with advanced medical equipment.
• Not staffed with trained paramedics. They often have little or no medical equipment.
• Injured or very ill travelers might prefer to take a taxi or their own car to the nearest major hospital.
• As of May 2025, the ongoing conflict had caused more than half of health facilities nationally to be out of service.

Medical payments and insurance

Make sure you know if your health insurance plan covers any medical expenses coverage abroad. Most U.S. plans do not.

• The U.S. government does not pay medical bills.
• U.S. Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses or bills abroad.
• Most hospitals and doctors abroad do not accept U.S. health insurance.
• Medical care is not free in Sudan. If you require medical attention, you will incur expenses, even if you are treated in a public healthcare facility.
• Lack of payment may bar future travel to Sudan.
• Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
• Credit card payment is not always available.
• Most hospitals and medical professionals require cash payment.
• All hospitals often need payment up front or proof of good insurance before providing treatment or admitting a patient.
• Make sure you know if your health insurance plan provides coverage abroad or reimbursement of payments. The CDC provides more information on types of insurance.
• We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Healthcare facilities

• As of May 2025, the ongoing conflict had caused more than half of health facilities nationally to be out of service.
• Outside the capital, few facilities exist. Hospitals and clinics are poorly equipped and ambulance services are unavailable.
• Medicines are not always available.
• They provide emergency medical treatment for 24 hours before requiring payment.
• For all other care, providers expect payment in Sudanese pounds in full before treatment.
• Medical staff may speak little or no English.

Prescription medications

• Always carry your prescription medication in its original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.
• Check with the Embassy of Sudan in the United States to make sure your medication is legal in Sudan.
• Exercise caution when purchasing medication abroad. Pharmaceuticals are usually easy to buy with few controls.
• Counterfeit medication is common and may not work, have the wrong strength, or have dangerous ingredients. You should buy medication with the help of a medical professional and from trusted places.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have rules for bringing medication back into the United States. If you buy medications abroad, the medications must meet CBP’s and the FDA’s requirements to bring them back legally.

The medications must also be for personal use and approved for use in the United States.

For more information:

• U.S. Customs and Border Protection
• Food and Drug Administration

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Surrogacy

• If you are considering traveling to Sudan to have a child through use of assisted reproductive technology (ART) or surrogacy, please review our information on ART and Surrogacy Abroad.
• Surrogacy is largely unregulated in Sudan, with no clear legal protections for foreign intended parents. Surrogacy agreements may not be enforced by Sudanese courts.
• If you decide to pursue parenthood in Sudan via ART with a surrogate, consider hiring a reputable local attorney and be prepared for long and unexpected delays in documenting your child’s birth with local authorities or citizenship status. Be aware that individuals who attempt to circumvent local law risk legal consequences.

Water quality and food safety

• In most areas, tap water is not safe to drink.
• In some locations, tap water is not available every day.
• Bottled water and beverages are generally safe. Use major brands and ensure the seal is intact.
• Many restaurants and hotels serve tap water unless bottled water is specifically requested.
• You may want to request no ice in your drinks since it may be made using tap water.
• Eating uncooked vegetables and fruits can make you sick.
• Make water safe by filtering, boiling, disinfecting, or distilling.
• Impure water can cause diseases like typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery.

Air quality

Air pollution can be a significant problem in many destinations abroad.

• Check NASA’s Air Quality Forecast. It uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), historical data, and global pollution modeling to generate a 3-day forecast of expected air quality in Sudan.
• For information about common air pollutants, check the CDC’s Air Quality page.
• For information about the U.S. Air Quality Index and health guidance, check out the EPA’s AirNow page.
• For general health information, visit the Medicine and Health page.

Road conditions and safety

• Road conditions are poor. Traffic accidents are common.
• Driving is dangerous due to excessive speeds, erratic driver behavior, pedestrians, animals in the roadways, and vehicles that are overloaded or lack basic safety equipment.
• Unexploded ordnance and landmines cause an additional danger in many areas. This includes the eastern states, Khartoum, and the Darfur and Kordofan regions. Stay on main roads marked as cleared by a competent de-mining authority.
• Only major highways and some streets in the cities are paved. Others are narrow and rutted.
• There are functioning traffic signals and streetlights on major thoroughfares in Khartoum. But there are virtually none in other parts of the country.
• A 4-wheel-drive vehicle is strongly recommended due road conditions on major inter-city highways.
• South of Khartoum, road conditions deteriorate significantly during the rainy season from June to October. Dust storms, also known as “haboobs,” reduce visibility.
• Travel outside of Khartoum should be undertaken with a minimum of 2 vehicles to protect against the threat of criminal attacks.
• Use reliable GPS and carry additional fuel, spare tires, and provisions.
• Professional roadside assistance service is not available. Gas shortages are common.

Traffic laws

• You must have an international driving permit or Sudanese license. You must also carry third-party liability insurance from the government.
• You may use a U.S. driver's license for up to 90 days.
• You can get a local driving license from the police traffic department.
• It is illegal to use a cell phone while driving.
• Comprehensive insurance is recommended because many local drivers carry no insurance.
• In the event of an automobile accident, remain inside the vehicle and wait for the police.
• If a hostile mob forms, or you feel your safety is in danger, leave the scene. Go directly to the nearest police station.
• Do not stop at the scene of an accident or at intersections where people have gathered. Mobs can form quickly.

Taxis and ride-shares

• Taxis are available throughout Khartoum. However, most do not meet U.S. safety standards.
• Drivers rarely speak English. Have your destination written down in Arabic.

Public and commercial transportation

• Avoid travel by public transportation. Hire private transport from a reliable source.
• Your company’s in-country staff, travel agencies, and local hotels may be able to arrange private transport on your behalf.
• Any form of public transportation is unregulated, unreliable, and generally unsafe.
• Service is basic and crowded.
• Schedules are unpublished and change without notice.
• Many areas lack any public transportation. Any such services may have been disrupted by the ongoing conflict.
• Fatal accidents with public buses are common.
• Many bus drivers have little training and are reckless. The vehicles are often poorly maintained.
• Most buses and bus stops are privately operated and unmarked.
• Review our information on Driving and Transportation Safety Abroad.

Aviation safety oversight

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed Sudan’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with international standards for aviation safety oversight. The FAA's website includes more information on its assessment program.

Maritime travel

Mariners and passengers planning travel to Sudan should check the following:

• U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Advisories
• MARAD Active Maritime Alerts
• Maritime Safety Office Navigational Warnings

The U.S. Coast Guard determined Sudan ports do not have effective anti-terrorism measures. Vessels that arrive in U.S. ports from Sudan ports must meet additional U.S. Coast Guard conditions of entry as described in the current Port Security Advisory, International Port Security Program - Port Security Advisory. Mariners and passengers in Sudan ports should be careful and use stronger security measures.

Much of Sudan experiences a rainy season between June and October.

• Sometimes excess rainfall has led to deadly landslides and flash flooding.
• Some areas experience “haboobs,” or sudden violent sandstorms. This is common early in the rainy season.

Sudan can face extreme heat. Major cities often see summer high temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Living abroad resources

If you live outside the United States for a long time, you or your family may experience various life events, wish to exercise U.S. citizenship rights, or need to meet U.S. legal obligations while abroad.

• Learn how to prepare for voting in U.S. elections, the birth of a child, or getting married.
• Ensure you have a plan for healthcare and medical insurance abroad.
• Even abroad, you still have certain obligations such as paying your U.S. taxes or registering for military selective service.
• Review information on federal benefits, such as Social Security and Veterans Affairs benefits.