UAE’s Role in Sudan’s Civil War Under Scrutiny at London Tourism Expo

Protests Erupt Against Abu Dhabi’s Support for Armed Militias

Crimes committed by the UAE in Sudan, including its support for armed militias fueling the country’s civil war, have followed Abu Dhabi to the World Travel Market (WTM) in London. As the international community increases calls for accountability and a boycott of the UAE regime, a group of protesters took action inside the 2024 expo, chanting slogans and holding banners condemning Abu Dhabi’s role in atrocities committed in Sudan and Ethiopia.

The protesters specifically highlighted the UAE’s involvement in the “genocide in Amhara,” a reference to the UAE’s alleged support for Ethiopian forces in the Amhara region. At the WTM, which took place from November 5-7 in London, demonstrators entered the UAE’s section and demanded an end to the country’s military interventions and human rights violations.

UAE’s Deepening Influence in Sudan’s Conflict

The UAE has emerged as a major foreign player in Sudan’s ongoing civil war, which has led to one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world. With over 7 million displaced internally and 2 million fleeing to neighboring countries, Sudan now faces the threat of famine, with the UN reporting that 25 million people urgently need humanitarian aid. The UAE’s support for Sudanese armed factions, particularly the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), has been pivotal in prolonging the conflict and blocking peace talks.

Since 2018, the UAE has invested over $6 billion in Sudan, focusing on sectors like agriculture, mining, and infrastructure, all while working to secure its geopolitical interests in the Horn of Africa. Reports indicate that the UAE has supplied weapons to the RSF through neighboring countries like Libya and Chad, circumventing UN arms embargoes. The UAE’s role in Sudan is part of a broader strategy to expand its influence in the region, including resource extraction in areas like Darfur, where RSF fighters have been active.

With Sudan’s gold and agricultural exports flowing into UAE markets, Abu Dhabi has benefited economically from the ongoing war, despite international calls for action. As the global community struggles to address the crisis, the UAE’s involvement in Sudan remains a key point of contention, raising questions about accountability and the future of Sudan’s humanitarian situation.