Sudanese

The Sudanese people are characterized by significant ethnic and linguistic diversity, even after the secession of South Sudan in 2011. The population includes numerous ethnic groups and subgroups, speaking a variety of languages and dialects.12

Major Ethnic and Linguistic Groups:

• Arabs: The majority of Sudanese people are Muslim and speak Arabic, identifying as "Arabs." However, this group is ethnically mixed and diverse in livelihood, ranging from city dwellers to farmers and nomadic pastoralists. They are often divided into larger tribal groupings like the Jalayin and Juhaynah.1
• Non-Arab Muslims: Notable groups include the Nubians in the north, the Beja in the Red Sea Hills (who speak Bedawi), and the Fur and Zaghawa in the west.1
• Non-Muslim Peoples: Primarily found in the south, these include groups like the Nuba in the Nuba Mountains and the Dinka.1

Arabic and English are the official working languages of Sudan. Many Sudanese are multilingual, often speaking Arabic and English as second languages. The cultural landscape of Sudan is rich and varied, with each major ethnic group and region contributing its unique forms of cultural expression.23