Sudan

It is a legal requirement to carry photographic ID, such as a passport, with you at all times. 

Non-Muslim women do not have to wear a veil or cover their heads. Men and women should dress modestly and respect local customs and sensitivities. 

Sudan is an Islamic country. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Make sure your actions do not cause offence, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas.

Non-Muslims are allowed to drink alcohol in Sudan, but not in the presence of Muslims. However, you may still be arrested for drinking alcohol regardless of the circumstances. 

There are severe penalties for drug trafficking. 

Due to the conflict, it is not advisable to take photographs in secure areas in Sudan. Do not take photographs or use a mobile phone camera close to: 

• government buildings 
• military installations 
• public utilities, including petrol stations 
• other sensitive areas, such as bridges and airports  

Plain-clothed public security officers operate in these areas. 

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in Sudan and not tolerated in Sudanese society. This includes inviting guests into hotel rooms.   

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers. 

It’s illegal to have extramarital relations and there are severe penalties. It’s illegal to live together, or to share the same hotel room, with someone of the opposite sex if you’re not married or closely related. 

It’s illegal to invite guests into your hotel room. Business meetings should take place in hotel lobbies or meeting rooms, not hotel rooms. Tourist police patrol the hotels, and British nationals have reported problems with Sudanese authorities about this. 

You might need a licence to use some technical equipment in Sudan, including: 

• satellite phones 
• listening or recording devices 
• radio transmitters 
• powerful cameras or binoculars 

Contact the Sudanese Embassy in the UK before travelling for more information. 

It’s difficult to use non-Sudanese credit or debit cards, and most banks and ATM machines will not let you withdraw cash. Bring US dollars with you to Sudan.  

You may be able to exchange US dollars dated 2006 onwards (older ones will not be exchanged), but this will be difficult due to the current conflict.  

British pounds are rarely exchanged. Only change money through banks or official exchange bureaus.  

Flash flooding can happen during the rainy season from July to October. Risks at this time of year include: 

• flooding that can make areas inaccessible by road, including areas south of Khartoum 
• dry riverbeds (‘wadis’) being hit by flash floods, with many only being passable on a major road