Port Sudan, Suakin, and Sawakin are major ports along Sudan’s Red Sea coast, facilitating diverse cargo handling and trade activities. The Port of Wadi Halfa at the northern border aids Sudan-Egypt trade, while Kosti Port manages bulk goods along the White Nile. Roseires Dam Port and Sennar Port are essential for transporting goods via the Blue Nile, contributing to Sudan’s regional trade network. These ports are critical to Sudan’s economic development and international trade connections.
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Port Sudan

UN/LOCODE: SDPZU
Coordinates: Latitude 19.6206° N, Longitude 37.2164° E
Cargo Handling: Diverse cargo, including containers, bulk goods, and petroleum products
Area Size: Extensive port area along the Red Sea
Cargo Terminals: Multiple terminals specialized for various cargo types
Storage Capacity: Warehouses and storage facilities available
Established: Port Sudan has a long history, with modernization efforts ongoing.
Port Sudan is Sudan’s largest and most important port. It plays a pivotal role in the nation’s economy, handling a diverse range of cargo, including containers, bulk goods, and petroleum products. The port’s strategic location along the Red Sea makes it a key trade gateway, not only for Sudan but also for landlocked neighboring countries like South Sudan.
Suakin Port
UN/LOCODE: SDSWN
Coordinates: Latitude 19.1164° N, Longitude 37.3300° E
Cargo Handling: Various types of cargo, supporting regional trade
Area Size: Smaller compared to Port Sudan
Cargo Terminals: Suakin Port has dedicated terminals.
Storage Capacity: Limited warehousing facilities
Established: Suakin Port has historical significance.
Suakin Port, historically significant for its ancient trading heritage, remains an essential maritime hub in Sudan. While it has a smaller capacity compared to Port Sudan, Suakin Port continues to handle various types of cargo and supports the region’s trade activities.
Sawakin Port
UN/LOCODE: SDSAK
Coordinates: Latitude 19.1000° N, Longitude 37.3333° E
Cargo Handling: General cargo and bulk goods
Area Size: Moderate-sized port along the Red Sea
Cargo Terminals: Specialized terminals for cargo handling
Storage Capacity: Limited warehousing facilities
Established: Sawakin Port plays a historical role in trade.
Sawakin Port, located near Suakin, serves as an additional trade link along Sudan’s Red Sea coast. It specializes in the handling of general cargo and bulk goods, contributing to the economic development of the region.
Port of Wadi Halfa

UN/LOCODE: SDWHF
Coordinates: Latitude 21.8000° N, Longitude 31.3500° E
Cargo Handling: Primarily goods transported via the Nile River and Lake Nasser
Area Size: Located at the northern tip of Lake Nasser
Cargo Terminals: Facilities for handling cargo from river transport
Storage Capacity: Basic storage facilities
Established: Supports trade between Sudan and Egypt.
The Port of Wadi Halfa is situated at the northern tip of Lake Nasser, along the border with Egypt. It is very important for trade and movement between Sudan and Egypt; mostly, it handles goods that are sent by the Nile River and Lake Nasser.
Sudan’s major ports are critical for the nation’s economic development and international trade. Their strategic locations, cargo handling capabilities, and storage facilities contribute significantly to Sudan’s trade connections and prosperity. As Sudan continues to modernize and expand its port infrastructure, these gateways will remain vital for the nation’s growth and its role in the global trade network.
Related FAQs
What is the largest port in Sudan?
The largest port in Sudan is Port Sudan, which is strategically located along the Red Sea. It plays a pivotal role in Sudan’s economy and serves as a vital trade gateway, handling various types of cargo.
What is the historical significance of Suakin Port?
Suakin Port has a rich historical heritage as an ancient trading hub. While it has a smaller capacity compared to Port Sudan, it continues to support Sudan’s trade activities along the Red Sea coast.
Where is the Port of Wadi Halfa located, and what is its role?
The Port of Wadi Halfa is situated at the northern tip of Lake Nasser, along Sudan’s border with Egypt. It facilitates trade and transportation between Sudan and Egypt, primarily handling cargo transported via the Nile River and Lake Nasser.
What goods are typically handled at Kosti Port?
Kosti Port, located along the White Nile, specializes in handling bulk goods, with a particular focus on agricultural products. It plays a significant role in transporting Sudan’s agricultural exports.
How do Roseires Dam Port and Sennar Port contribute to Sudan's trade network?
Roseires Dam Port and Sennar Port, situated along the Blue Nile, support the transportation of goods via the river. They are essential for regional trade activities, contributing to Sudan’s economic development and trade connections.
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