The United Arab Emirates is growing its smuggling network to Sudan's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces, or RSF, through Ethiopia and the Central African Republic, Le Monde reported on March 22. Regional and diplomatic sources told Le Monde that Emirati arms shipments to the Central African Republic were first directed to Bangui and then dispatched to Birao, a town in the north of the country located near the border with Sudan.

Abu Dhabi's drive to develop new weapon smuggling routes comes as Chad closed its eastern border with Sudan on Feb. 23 after clashes between the SAF and RSF spilled into the country. The United Arab Emirates and the Central African Republic signed a comprehensive economic partnership agreement in March 2025, and Emirati entities are now pressing ahead with large investment initiatives in the country, including the construction of a new international airport and a major solar plant.