Sudan
Updated 17/09/2012 12:20:00
Travel Summary
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The compound housing the German and British Embassies in Khartoum was attacked on 14 September. Further incidents involving western interests are possible. The British Embassy remains closed.
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You should avoid any demonstrations or large gatherings of people. International news events can sometimes trigger anti-Western demonstrations. If you become aware of any nearby violence you should leave the area immediately. You should keep yourself informed of developments, including by regularly checking this advice.
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We advise against all travel to the following parts of Sudan: Darfur, the Red Sea State border with Eritrea; the Abyei region; Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile states. See Safety and Security - Local Travel.
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We advise against all but essential travel to the following parts of Sudan: areas west of the towns of an-Nahud in North Kordofan up to the Darfur border. See Safety and Security - Local Travel.
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Since 16 June, Khartoum has been experiencing frequent protests across the city in response to rising prices and the end of fuel subsidies. These have often led to violent clashes between security forces and protesters. This trend is likely to continue and has spread to other cities in Sudan. The 29 June protests, on the eve of the anniversary of the ruling party coming to power, saw the biggest demonstrations so far, but protests have continued since on a smaller scale. Take particular notice of your surroundings and if you suspect that a demonstration may be starting close to you, leave the vicinity immediately.
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Since November 2011, there have been increased tensions along the border between the Republics of Sudan and South Sudan, which have broken out into conflict. The situation is liable to change quickly and has been exacerbated by cross-border actions by both states and contested border demarcation.
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On 29 April 2012, the President declared a state of emergency in the five states bordering South Sudan, which give the government expanded powers of arrest. At the current tense time, there are reports of arbitrary detentions in different parts of the country, including Khartoum and including foreign nationals. We advise extreme caution around any areas which may be sensitive to the government, including military installations, border areas and camps for internally displaced persons.
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Local laws reflect the fact that Sudan and the capital Khartoum are predominantly Muslim. You should respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions at all times and be aware of your actions to ensure that they do not offend other cultures or religious beliefs, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas. For more general information see Travelling during Ramadan.
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There is a general threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
- There is a threat of kidnapping throughout Sudan. Westerners have previously been the target of kidnaps. See Safety and Security.
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Rallies and demonstrations occur sporadically throughout the country often at short notice. We advise those currently in Sudan to maintain a high level of vigilance, to keep a low profile and avoid crowds. As a precaution, people based in Sudan are advised to maintain several days' stock of food and water and to stay indoors until any demonstration or rally in your locality has passed. See Safety and Security - Political Situation.
- 12 British nationals required consular assistance in Sudan in the period 01 April 2011 - 31 March 2012. See General - Consular Assistance Statistics.
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You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. See the General - Insurance.
- Those currently in or considering travel to Sudan should keep abreast of the latest situation, check the Travel Advice regularly, and register using our LOCATE service. See the Safety and Security section of this travel advice for more details. You should be aware that the capacity of the Embassy to assist in times of crisis will be limited and we recommend that you consider your own travel arrangements should there be the need to leave at short notice, ensuring you have up-to-date travel documents and visas.