Omdurman Souq
One of the largest markets in Sudan, spread across the old city west of the Nile.
Updated 3 September 2026
The souq at Omdurman spreads over a large area of the old city across the Nile from Khartoum, and it has been the country's principal market for well over a century: silver and gold in the jewellers' section, ebony and ivory substitutes among the craft stalls, spices, cloth, leather, camel gear and everything else. Omdurman itself was built as the Mahdist capital in the 1880s and the market grew with it.
What's there
- The silver section - the jewellers' quarter the market is best known for.
- The craft stalls - carving, leather and camel gear among the trades.
- The spice trade - the sacks and stalls through the food section.
- The Mahdist city - the settlement laid out in the 1880s the market grew in.
When to go
November to February is the cool season. Mornings are busiest and least oppressive. March to May is extremely hot.
What to expect
The market is crowded and disorienting and pickpocketing is a risk. Photography needs asking and is often refused. Travel in Sudan requires arrangements made well in advance.
Nearby
The Hamed el-Nil tomb is nearby, and Khartoum is across the river.
Key facts
Source: Wikidata, item Q126054996, read on 18 October 2026.
What to pack for Omdurman Souq
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- A reusable bag or container - For market produce and cutting down on packaging. Find on Amazon
- Wet wipes + hand sanitiser - Street food and washbasins do not always go together. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
