Port Sudan Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Communication

Zain, MTN, and Sudani are the main mobile providers. SIM card registration requires your passport. Connectivity can be inconsistent.

Stay Connected

embedded sims for travel: Airalo
Portable Wi-Fi devices: Solis Wi-Fi
Language learning: Rosetta Stone

Language & Internet

Arabic is the official language. English is not widely spoken. Download an offline Arabic language pack for translation.

Connectivity Details

Internet access in hotels can be slow. Mobile data is often better.
International postal services may experience delays.
A phrasebook is a beneficial resource for basic communication.

Business Hours

Government offices operate Sunday-Thursday. Banks are open during weekdays. Shops often have an afternoon closing.

Schedules

Government Offices: Sunday-Thursday, 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM.
Banks: Sunday-Thursday, 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM.
Shops: Open early, afternoon break, reopen until late.

Holidays & Closures

Muslim holidays' the dates are different annually. Sudan Independence Day is January 1. Revolution Day is also observed.

Dates

Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Islamic New Year, Mawlid an-Nabi are observed.
Services may be limited or closed at the time of religious holidays.
During Ramadan, business hours generally reduce.

Etiquette and Cultural Norms

Interactions

Handshakes are common; use the right hand only.
Men typically shake hands with men, women with women.
Eye contact is generally acceptable.
Conservative dress for all individuals is customary.

Photography & Behavior

Always seek permission before photographing people.
Do not photograph military or government buildings.
Eat with the right hand. How much to tip for service staff is valued.
Remove shoes when entering a your home or mosque.

Language Tip

Engage respectfully with locals. A smile and a few Arabic phrases make a positive difference.

Airport Services

Services at Port Sudan Airport (PZU) might differ from international standards. Planning ahead is prudent.

Lounge Access

Consider a Priority Pass membership for airport lounge access globally, where available. Priority Pass

Flight Compensation

A service like Compensair assists with claims for delayed or cancelled flights.

Customer Service

Expect services to be basic. Always allow extra time for check-in and security procedures.

Health & Safety Protocols

Always check official travel advisories before departing. Maintain personal hygiene. Carry necessary medications.

Precautionary Steps

Check required vaccinations well in advance.
Pack a basic first-aid kit for minor ailments.
Stay hydrated, especially in warmer months.

Money & Banking

The Sudanese Pound (SDG) is the local currency. US Dollars are sometimes accepted in major establishments.

Currency Tips

Credit and debit card acceptance is limited.
Carry sufficient cash in local currency for daily transactions.
Exchange currency at official bureaus or banks.

Accessibility Information

Infrastructure

Limited to non-existent infrastructure for mobility challenges.
Sidewalks are often uneven or absent.
Civic buildings and transport are generally not accessible.

Services

No attractions are specifically designed or maintained for accessibility.
No specialized services for visual or hearing impairments exist.
No specific accessibility resources are available for tourists.

Traveler's Note

Be prepared for minimal infrastructure and services that may not match Western standards. Flexibility and patience are valuable attributes for travel in the region.

Local Customs & Etiquette

Greeting Customs

Handshakes are common. Use your right hand only. Men typically shake hands with men, and women with women.

Interacting Respectfully

Avoid extensive physical contact with the opposite sex in public.
Greetings can be elaborate, including questions about health and family.
Eye contact is generally considered acceptable.

Attire & Dining

Conservative dress for all individuals is required. Dining customs include eating with the right hand.

Cultural Norms

Cover shoulders and knees. Women should wear loose-fitting clothing.
Tipping for service staff is appreciated.
Remove your shoes when entering a home or mosque.

Photography Ethics

Always get consent before taking pictures of people. Privacy is highly valued.

Guidelines

Avoid photographing children without parental consent.
Do not photograph military or police personnel or facilities.
Exercise discretion in all photography to respect local sensibilities.

Sensitive Topics

Avoid discussing politics, religion, or the ongoing conflict unless invited to by a trusted local.

Taboos & Social Norms

Do not criticize local customs or beliefs.
Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon.
Gender segregation is common in many public spaces.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Gender Considerations

Respect local customs regarding interactions between sexes.
Avoid behavior that might be perceived as disrespectful.
Women travelers should maintain conservative dress codes.

LGBTQ+ Safety

Sudan has strict laws against same-sex relationships.
LGBTQ+ individuals face severe discrimination and legal penalties.
Public expression of LGBTQ+ identity is illegal and dangerous.

Cultural Awareness

Paying attention to local customs and displaying humility greatly assists in respectful interactions with residents.

Accessibility and Preparedness

Infrastructure challenges and the need for personal preparedness are important elements to consider for Port Sudan.

Accessibility for All

Amenities for travelers with mobility impairments is very limited to non-existent in Port Sudan.

Physical Accessibility

Sidewalks are often uneven, posing difficulties.
Public structures are generally not designed for wheelchair access.
Public transportation generally lacks accessibility features.

Travel Resources

No specialized services or resources are available for travelers with visual or hearing impairments.

Preparedness

No specific resources for tourists regarding accessibility information.
Always carry identification and copies of important documents.
Pre-download offline maps for navigation.

Health & Medical

Medical facilities in Port Sudan are basic. Emergency services may be limited. Travel insurance is highly recommended.

Health Guidelines

Carry personal medications with doctor's notes.
Drink only bottled or purified water.
Maintain strict personal hygiene to prevent illness.

Safety and Security

The security situation can change rapidly. Stay informed through official government advisories.

Vigilance

Avoid unnecessary travel outside designated safe zones.
Be alert at all times.
Report any suspicious activities to your contacts.

Emergency Contacts

Police

Local police services are available. Watch out for possible language barriers.

Ambulance

Access to emergency medical transport can be limited. Seek guidance from local connections.

Fire Services

Firefighting services run in Port Sudan. Local numbers should be confirmed upon arrival.

Preparation Check

A thorough preparation list, covering health, safety, and logistical aspects, is prudent for travel to Port Sudan.

Port Sudan Travel Tips