What You Need to Know When You’re Moving to Khartoum

Relocating to Khartoum

The Climate in Khartoum

People who are about to move to Khartoum should be prepared for a hot desert climate and nine months of the year where average rainfall is lower than 5 mm. There is a particularly hot, dry season between April and June, while the very brief rainy season lasts about a month around August. On the plus side, Khartoum is one of the sunniest destinations in the world, but temperatures drop off at night.

The heat can be a health risk in Khartoum and precautions should be taken. Violent sandstorms known as haboobs are common from May to August and can reduce visibility to zero. Khartoum is vulnerable to drought some years, and flooding from the Nile is possible from July through September.

Visas for Sudan

It is likely that most people moving to Sudan will need a visa. People applying for a business visa need a letter of recommendation from a sponsoring company or business partner based in Sudan, and the application can be a complex and uncertain process so allow plenty of time. Please note that the immigration authorities in Sudan will routinely refuse entry to anyone who has evidence of a visit to Israel in their passports.

Visitors must register at the Ministry of Interior within three days of arriving in Sudan. All foreigners traveling more than 25 kilometers outside of Khartoum must obtain a travel permit from the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs in Khartoum. For more information, please visit the relevant embassy in your home country.

Finding Accommodation

Renting in Khartoum is not particularly cheap, and a one or two bedroom apartment could easily cost from 800 to 1,500 USD in the most desirable suburbs. These areas, the ones most popular with foreigners and the most upmarket, include Alryad (which is also the location of the Royal Care International Hospital), Al Manshia and Al Armarat.

Most expats reside to the east of the White Nile, but Omdurman to the west offers a more bustling, Middle Eastern vibe. It is out from the center of Khartoum, but has cheaper rent for those prepared to travel a little. Given the extreme heat for much of the year in Khartoum, choosing accommodation with a good air conditioning system should be an utmost priority. You can begin your search for accommodation in Khartoum online, with 4321 Property a good starting point.