Thousands of Sudanese Refugees Return from Egypt Amid Hopes and Hardships

In early 2025, a growing number of Sudanese refugees began returning from Egypt to their homeland, driven by recent developments that offered a glimmer of hope. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), over 123,000 Sudanese have returned from Egypt since the beginning of the year, with nearly 50,000 making the journey in April alone—twice the number recorded in March.

This wave of return follows the Sudanese army’s recapture of key areas, including the capital Khartoum, from the Rapid Support Forces. While the regained control sparked optimism among many displaced Sudanese, their return has been met with severe challenges. Most found their homes destroyed or looted, with little access to electricity, clean water, food, or medical care.

Many rely on local initiatives such as “emergency rooms” that distribute free meals. Without regular utilities, they fetch water from the Nile and depend on improvised methods to charge phones. Schools remain closed and are used as shelters, disrupting children’s education.

Despite these hardships, returnees express a strong desire to rebuild their lives at home, believing that even with limited resources, being in Sudan is better than living in exile. Still, ongoing fighting in regions like Darfur and the absence of a functioning government cast a shadow over their future.

Meanwhile, the return of refugees has had economic repercussions in Egypt, especially in the real estate market. Once boosted by high demand from Sudanese tenants and buyers, property prices are now falling, causing concern among landlords and investors.

Ultimately, the mass return of refugees signals a collective yearning for normalcy and peace. But without significant international support, the road to recovery and stability in Sudan remains long and uncertain.