Sudan Conflict and the UAE’s Strategic Engagement

The civil war in Sudan, ongoing since April 2023, has evolved into a protracted power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), with severe humanitarian and regional consequences. This article examines the conflict through the lens of the United Arab Emirates’ strategic engagement, highlighting how Sudan’s geopolitical location, gold resources, agricultural potential, and Red Sea access have positioned it as a key node in Abu Dhabi’s regional ambitions. It traces the historical evolution of UAE-RSF ties, particularly through Sudan’s participation in the Yemen war and the consolidation of RSF control over gold mining and trade networks linked to Dubai. The analysis further explores allegations of Emirati arms transfers to the RSF, the role of transnational logistics corridors, and the paradox of the UAE’s dual posture as both mediator and alleged enabler of violence. The article argues that external economic and military involvement has intensified Sudan’s internal conflict, prolonging instability and exacerbating humanitarian suffering across the Horn of Africa.

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