Since the eruption of hostilities between the Sudanese military and the Rapid Support Forces in April 2023, Sudan has emerged as a crucial battleground for Gulf influence. Major powers in the region are vying for greater access to the country’s rich gold, minerals, and other strategic resources.
Gulf Powers’ Engagement in Sudan
The escalating conflict has sparked a surge of interest from various Gulf nations, leading to promises of aid, new mining agreements, and diplomatic efforts. However, despite these developments, the living conditions for the majority of Sudanese citizens remain unchanged. Wealth generated from gold and mineral extraction has not translated into improved economic stability for the populace. Projections by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) indicate that Sudan’s GDP per capita will stagnate at approximately $864 by 2026, with a mere 0.7% growth rate, keeping it among the poorest nations on the African continent. Ongoing war, rampant inflation, and mass displacement continue to erode the country’s resilience.
Strategic Shifts Amidst Conflict
In the early days of the conflict, Saudi Arabia took proactive measures by facilitating peace talks and maintaining contact with the military authorities in Sudan. The war has severely disrupted trade, strained public finances, and forced millions into displacement, prompting urgent attention from neighboring powers. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has also played a significant role, although its involvement has become increasingly delicate due to allegations of providing support to the RSF. Notably, in May 2025, Sudan’s army-affiliated defense council severed ties with the UAE, accusing it of supplying sophisticated weaponry to its adversaries.
Moreover, the UAE imposed restrictions that further complicated Sudan’s logistics, including banning Sudanese aircraft from entering its airspace and suspending cargo movements affecting critical supply chains, particularly those linked to South Sudanese oil exports.
The Role of Gold in Shaping Dynamics
Gold has long been a powerful draw for Gulf nations interested in Sudan’s mineral wealth. A report indicated that the UAE accounted for nearly 90% of Sudan’s official gold exports in the first half of 2025, which were valued at an estimated $840 million before trade disruptions occurred. As the conflict escalated, Sudan began redirecting some of its gold trade towards Saudi Arabia, marking a significant pivot in its economic relationships. This shift was facilitated by a formal agreement with a Saudi state-run gold refinery, providing Sudan an alternative to Dubai’s previous monopoly over its gold market. Following this, Sudan’s Ministry of Minerals signed a gold exploration agreement with Saudi Arabia, further solidifying new economic ties.
Humanitarian Efforts and Ongoing Challenges
As the humanitarian crisis deepens in Sudan, the UAE has sought to re-establish its presence in the country. In February 2026, Abu Dhabi committed $500 million to a UN humanitarian fund for Sudan, showcasing a renewed effort to counter the existing humanitarian disaster. Simultaneously, Saudi Arabia has reported providing over $3.21 billion in humanitarian aid across various sectors, including education and health care, illuminating the complexities of international aid intertwined with geopolitical strategies.
Despite the billions in aid and investment pouring in from Gulf nations, Sudan remains entrenched in poverty. Much of the financial support is tied to resource extraction and geopolitical maneuvering rather than fostering sustainable economic growth. As regional and global players, including Turkey and Western countries, jostle for influence, the contest for Sudan’s resources and political direction continues to evolve, raising questions about future stability and recovery.