Tourism in Sudan rebounds with new visa-free travel policy | kbnmart

reading time: 4 minutes

Sudan, located in northeastern Africa, holds the title of the third largest country on the continent. It shares borders with Egypt to the north, the Red Sea to the northeast, Eritrea and Ethiopia to the east, South Sudan to the south, the Central African Republic to the southwest, Chad to the west, and Libya to the northwest. Its capital is Khartoum, where the Blue and White Nile rivers meet, attracting tourists from 12 countries thanks to its easy visa-free travel policy.

Sudan has a diverse cultural heritage, influenced by many ethnic groups and historical kingdoms, including the Nubians. The economy is based primarily on agriculture and natural resources, such as oil. Despite experiencing significant political and social upheaval, including civil wars and conflicts, Sudan remains rich in history and cultural traditions.

Travel to Sudan without a visa

Citizens of the following 12 countries can travel to Sudan without a visa:

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Boys
• Cook Islands
• Dominica
• Egypt
• Ghana
• Haiti
• Malaysia
• Micronesia
• New York
• Samoa
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Visitors to Sudan

Sudan attracts a diverse group of visitors, including adventure travelers, historians, researchers, academics, business people, expatriates, and humanitarian workers. Scholars and researchers are drawn to Sudan’s rich historical and cultural heritage, as well as its diverse ecosystems, for academic purposes. Business travelers, especially those involved in the oil industry, agriculture, and infrastructure projects, visit Sudan in search of economic opportunities.

In addition, aid workers and NGO staff come to provide humanitarian assistance. Most visitors to Sudan come from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and neighboring African countries.

Business and conference centers in Sudan:

• International Conference on Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering in Khartoum
• International Conference on Soil, Plant and Water Sciences in Khartoum
• World Congress on Industrial Biotechnology (WCIB) in Khartoum
• International Conference on Cell and Tissue Sciences in Khartoum
• International Conference on Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (IC2N) in Khartoum
• International Conference on Sustainable Water Management in Khartoum
• International Conference on Latest Medical Research and Development in Omdurman
• International Conference on Psychology and Related Sciences in Omdurman
• International Conference on Education, Research and Innovation in Omdurman
• International Conference on Marine Sciences and Aquaculture in Omdurman
• International Conference on English Literature and Linguistics (ICELL) in Omdurman
• International Conference on Political Science and International Relations in Omdurman

Enjoy the hospitality of the Sudanese people, savor delicious local cuisine, and discover the hidden treasures of this fascinating country, where the past meets the present in a whirlpool of color, sound, and adventure.

Top 5 Hotels in Sudan

1. Corinthia Hotel Khartoum:A luxury hotel in Khartoum with stunning views of the Nile River, offering modern amenities, fine dining, a spa and extensive conference facilities.
2. Salam Rotana Hotel:A distinguished hotel near Khartoum International Airport, known for its elegant rooms, diverse dining options, swimming pool, fitness center and business services.
3. Coral Khartoum Hotel:A popular hotel offering comfortable accommodation, a restaurant and easy access to Khartoum’s tourist attractions and business areas.
4. Grand Holiday Villa & Suites Khartoum:A historic hotel on the banks of the Blue Nile with colonial charm, it offers spacious rooms, a restaurant, a swimming pool and conference facilities.
5. Ewa Hotel Apartments:A modern hotel offering apartment-style accommodations ideal for extended stays, with amenities including a fitness center, dining options and a central location.

The most important tourist attractions in Sudan

1. Pyramids of MeroeAn ancient city and former capital of the Kingdom of Kush, it contains more than 200 pyramids and amazing archaeological sites.
2. Nubian DesertVast desert landscapes offer unique geological formations, ancient ruins, and opportunities for adventure tourism.
3. Nile StreetA picturesque street in Khartoum running along the Blue Nile, lined with colonial-era buildings, museums and parks.
4. Sudan National MuseumThe country’s first museum in Khartoum, which displays Sudanese history, culture and artifacts from ancient civilizations.
5. Suakin IslandAn ancient coastal city on the Red Sea known for its historic coral buildings and ruins that reflect Sudan’s maritime heritage.

Special festivals celebrated in Sudan

1. independence dayCelebrated on January 1, marking the anniversary of Sudan’s independence from British-Egyptian rule in 1956, with parades, cultural events and national performances.
2. Eid al-FitrA major Islamic festival marking the end of the month of Ramadan, celebrated with communal prayers, feasts, and the exchange of gifts.
3. Eid al-AdhaAlso known as Eid al-Adha, it commemorates Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son, and is celebrated with special prayers, animal sacrifices, and sharing food with the needy.
4. Nile FestivalsIt is celebrated in different areas along the Nile River, highlighting the importance of the river through boat races, traditional music and dance, and exhibitions of local handicrafts.
5. Heritage and cultural festivalsRegional festivals that showcase traditional music, dance, crafts and cuisine, and promote cultural diversity and unity in Sudan.

Major airports in Sudan

1. Khartoum International AirportThe main international gateway to the Sudanese capital Khartoum, serving as a hub for international and domestic flights.
2. New Port Sudan International AirportLocated in Port Sudan, it serves as a major airport for the Red Sea region, facilitating international and regional flights.
3. El Fasher Airport:An airport in El Fasher provides vital connectivity to the Darfur region with limited local and international services.
4. Dongola AirportThis airport is located in Dongola, serves the Northern State, and provides domestic flight services.
5. Kassala AirportLocated in Kassala, it serves the eastern region of Sudan, and primarily deals with domestic flights.

Airlines serving Sudan

• The UAE
• Egyptair
• Vistara
• Etihad Airways
• Turkish Airlines

Tourism development in Sudan

Improve infrastructure:

• Develop airports, roads and tourist facilities to enhance accessibility and comfort for travelers.
• – Expand accommodation options, including hotels and eco-lodges, especially in key tourist areas.

Promote cultural heritage:

• Highlighting historical sites such as the Pyramids of Meroe, Jebel Barkal, and Suakin Island.
• Organizing festivals and cultural events to showcase the rich Sudanese heritage and traditions.

Ecotourism and adventure tourism:

• Promoting the Nubian Desert, Sengenba Reserve and other natural attractions for ecotourism and adventure activities.
• Develop sustainable tourism practices to preserve natural and cultural sites.

Enhanced security measures:

• Implementing necessary measures to ensure the safety and security of tourists, and addressing concerns about political instability.
• Cooperate with international organizations to provide updated travel information and guidance.

Marketing and International Cooperation:

• Launching marketing campaigns to promote Sudan as a unique and emerging tourist destination.
• Partnering with travel agencies, airlines and international tourism bodies to attract a diverse range of visitors.

Sudan’s rich cultural heritage, historical significance and emerging tourism infrastructure make it an attractive destination for all types of travelers, offering a unique and enriching experience. A land of ancient mysteries and untapped beauty, Sudan invites intrepid travelers to explore its vast desert landscapes, majestic pyramids and vibrant cultural heritage. From the rusty red sands of the Nubian Desert to the crystal clear waters of the Red Sea, Sudan’s diverse landscapes are a treasure trove of natural wonders.