Abdel Gaiyum Gate Wears a New Look After Restoration| Sudanow Magazine

Khartoum (Sudanow) — Abdel Gaiyum Gate, one of the most prominent historical landmarks in the city of Omdurman, has regained its authentic heritage appearance following extensive restoration and rehabilitation works that revived its splendor after the severe damage it sustained during the recent war in Sudan.

Abdel Gaiyum Gate is considered one of the archaeological landmarks associated with the history of the Mahdist State. It was once part of the wall surrounding Omdurman during the Mahdist era and was named after its guard, Abdel Gaiyum Jargandi Abbas. Located along the Nile River at the entrance of Omdurman, the gate has long stood as a historical witness documenting the Mahdist period between 1885 and 1889.

During the war, the gate suffered extensive damage due to direct and indirect shelling, as well as clashes that took place around the area, particularly near the buildings of the national radio and television headquarters and the National Theatre in Omdurman. It was also subjected to vandalism and looting, similar to many heritage centers and museums that lost valuable artifacts due to the absence of protection and their location within conflict zones.

According to sources speaking to Sudanow, the damage included major structural cracks in the gate, which was originally built from mud and stone, in addition to distortions in the surrounding area caused by the excavation of a trench nearby. This weakened the structure and damaged parts of the historical site. Marble memorial plaques attached to the gate were also vandalized and erased, including a plaque bearing the names of the martyrs of the Battle of Karari.

As part of the efforts by the Khartoum State Government to rebuild the state following the restoration of control over the capital, authorities launched projects to rehabilitate roads, bridges, public parks, and heritage and recreational sites. Abdel Gaiyum Gate was among the most prominent landmarks selected for restoration and rehabilitation.

Restoration work began in 2025 under the supervision of the Ministry of Culture and Information. The project included removing the effects of destruction and encroachments, rehabilitating the gate and its surroundings, and restoring its historical features. The site was officially reopened on January 26, coinciding with the anniversary of the liberation of Khartoum.

Heritage experts believe that the restoration of Abdel Gaiyum Gate represents an important step toward preserving Sudan’s national memory and safeguarding historical symbols that reflect the country’s cultural and civilizational identity, as the gate remains part of the wall of Omdurman — Sudan’s national, historical, and cultural capital.

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