The meeting point of the Blue and the White Nile rivers, the Sudanese capital of Khartoum is a huge, sprawling city that has embraced modern culture while still retaining its own traditional character.

Khartoum has quite a frenetic pace of life, and its busy streets and bustling markets are always on the go from the early hours through to late at night. This makes it an enchanting and chameleon-like location, and its character shifts according to the time of day.

Book a flight to Khartoum with Qatar Airways and explore a city that is a classic example of modern life in ancient surroundings.

Khartoum, the Sudanese capital, is located where the White Nile meets the Blue Nile. It is a confounding mix of then and now. Its skyline, glittering with towering glass buildings, stands alongside colonial structures. While it may be home to Ancient Egyptian temples and historic palaces, a trip to Khartoum will show you that it also embraces the present.

Book a flight from Beijing with Qatar Airways and you’ll fly from one of the busiest international airports in the world. Situated around 32km from the city centre and ranked as the second busiest airport for passengers in the world, this modern, efficient airport has an excellent safety record and a reputation for outstanding passenger care. The focus (primarily due to the sheer volume of traffic) is on efficiency, and passengers are able to check in within minutes of arriving, making it a pleasant departure point for international travel and particularly popular with business travellers on tight schedules.

Transportation and parking

The airport is extensive, with three large terminals, regular shuttles run between the terminals and parking areas. The Beijing Subway's Airport Express runs to T2 and T3 and takes around 20 minutes from the city centre. Shuttles run between the major hotels and the airport and are remarkably efficient and regular. It takes approximately 45 minutes from the centre of Beijing to the airport by shuttle. Taxis are plentiful, but as many drivers do not speak English it is best to ask your hotel concierge to book a taxi for you. Taxi journeys take approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on the traffic conditions. Parking at the airport is provided for both short and long-term stays, but proportional to the size of the airport, spaces are limited.

Arriving in Beijing

Passengers flying from Beijing with Qatar Airways depart from Terminal 3 Concourse E. While T3 is huge, it is incredibly well organised and run, so passengers should have no difficulty checking in and clearing security checks. This ultra-modern terminal has everything passengers need, including exclusive lounges for business and first-class passengers, and electrical power points next to every chair in the Departure waiting areas.

Facilities and amenities

Facilities at the airport are exceptional, particularly in the main Terminal - 3. Terminal 3 has 243 elevators, escalators or moving walkways, so getting around is easy. The surroundings are incredibly modern, yet there is the tranquillity of an indoor garden in the heart of the terminal for a chance to get some peace and quiet before your flight leaves. Food and drink options include tea houses, fast food restaurants and traditional Chinese cuisine, as well as international restaurants. The shopping court is outstanding, offering everything from Duty Free through to traditional Chinese goods for those last-minute souvenirs.

The meeting point of the Blue and the White Nile rivers, the Sudanese capital of Khartoum is a huge, sprawling city that has embraced modern culture while still retaining its own traditional character.

Khartoum has quite a frenetic pace of life, and its busy streets and bustling markets are always on the go from the early hours through to late at night. This makes it an enchanting and chameleon-like location, and its character shifts according to the time of day.

Book a flight to Khartoum with Qatar Airways and explore this enigmatic city for yourself. From presidential palaces to the natural beauty of two of the most important rivers in Africa, huge souqs and ceremonial splendour, Khartoum has it all.

Tourist attractions

The natural splendour of the Blue Nile and the White Nile are undoubtedly one of Khartoum’s biggest draws. Where the two meet (the Confluence) can be seen at Al-Mogran, located at the very end of Nile Street.

For the best view stand on the old metal bridge and you’ll see the two rivers meeting right underneath your feet.

The Sudan Presidential Palace Museum is an excellent starting point for visitors to learn more about the culture of Sudan. Souq Omdurman is said to be one of the largest markets in Africa, and a rich hunting ground for genuine souvenirs and good quality accessories.

Head for the handicraft street towards the northern end of the market.

Every Friday (except during Ramadan) head to the Hamed al-Nil tomb to witness a colourful display of Sufi dancing.

Alternatively (and if you’re prepared to travel a little further out of town) on Friday afternoons at 4pm outside the Sita Al Haj Yousef souq you’ll find two teams of Nufa wrestlers battling it out in front of hundreds of spectators!

Travel Considerations

Flights to Khartoum with Qatar Airways land at Khartoum International Airport. Visa restrictions for entry into the country will depend on your country of origin, length of stay and whether your trip is for business or pleasure. Before you fly to Khartoum please check the visa and passport requirements.