The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has banned Sudanese aircraft from landing at its airports,a move Sudan’s Civil Aviation Authority described as “surprising” and deeply disruptive to travel plans for its citizens.
The UAE also blocked a Sudanese flight from departing Abu Dhabi,escalating already fraught relations between the two nations. The flight ban marks the latest flashpoint in a widening diplomatic and military rift,following Sudan’s decision in May to sever ties with the UAE. Sudan’s transitional council has accused the Gulf state of aiding the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) with sophisticated weaponry and foreign fighters during the country’s ongoing civil war — charges the UAE denies.
Tensions intensified further this week when Sudan’s army claimed responsibility for an airstrike on an Emirati plane allegedly carrying Colombian mercenaries and arms to RSF-held Nyala,a strategic city in the Darfur region. The strike reportedly killed at least 40 fighters,though the UAE has not responded. Sudan’s state TV station said the operation had established a “new equation of deterrence,” referring to the strike as a “blatant message” that “Sudanese autonomy is a red line” against foreign interference.
Sudanese officials have denounced the UAE’s aviation restrictions as retaliation. The diplomatic row has spilled onto global platforms,including the UN Security Council,where Sudan accused the UAE of prolonging conflict and vowed to present evidence to the International Criminal Court (ICC). Despite severed ties,economic links persist,including Sudanese gold exports to the UAE and a reopened consulate in Abu Dhabi.
United News - unews.co.za