The Sudanese mining landscape is undergoing a strategic shift. Saudi Arabia, through its Saudi Gold Refinery , is now demonstrating its ambition to capture a portion of Sudan's gold production, a market historically dominated by the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Relative competition for the Emirates

While the Saudi offensive may challenge Dubai's monopoly, the immediate impact remains moderate. According to Marc Ummel of the Swissaid organization, the Emirates retain a structural advantage:

1. Massive smuggling: Approximately 80% of Sudanese gold leaves the country clandestinely.
2. Parallel circuits: Whether the metal comes from areas held by the army or by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), it continues to transit to Dubai, often via Egypt.
3. Financial windfall: In 2024, these illicit exports would have brought in more than one billion dollars for the FSR.

A political and economic rapprochement

The interest in gold is just the tip of the iceberg of a growing alliance between Riyadh and Khartoum. Since the Sudanese army regained control of the capital in March 2025, Saudi Arabia has established itself as a key partner in the reconstruction.

1. Infrastructure: Priority given to Saudi companies for the renovation of railways and Red Sea ports.
2. Diplomacy: Riyadh is positioning itself as a mediator and major financial supporter in a country ravaged by three years of conflict.
3. Access to decision-makers: Investing in gold allows Saudis to consolidate their direct links with the generals who oversee mineral resources.

Sudan seeks new alliances

The diplomatic break with the United Arab Emirates — which Khartoum accuses of supporting the RSF and being complicit in genocide — has pushed Sudan to diversify its partners.

In this quest for new markets, Saudi Arabia joins Qatar and Oman on the list of potential buyers. Although the official figures for these future transactions remain to be determined, the political signal is clear: Sudan is attempting to reduce its economic dependence on Dubai.