Syria sets out tourism recovery plans for summer 2026

Syria has launched its 2026 summer tourism season, with events, festivals and visitor activities planned across the country through to the end of September as authorities seek to boost tourism and support economic recovery.

 

The programme was launched in Tartus, Syria’s main Mediterranean port city, in the presence of President Ahmad al Sharaa and Tourism Minister Mazen Al Salhani. Activities will take place across the country throughout the season.

 

Officials also highlighted upgrades to Al Tahouna Port, the main ferry gateway to Arwad Island, aimed at improving visitor access and strengthening tourism infrastructure ahead of the peak travel period.

 

Mazen Al Salhani, Minister of Tourism, said: “Tourism is far more than a sector defined by travel and visitation; it is a strategic pillar of economic development. It enhances Syria’s standing, as well as that of the wider Middle East and North Africa region, within the global tourism landscape.”

 

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The initiative forms part of wider efforts to revive Syria’s tourism sector and attract visitors from across the Middle East and North Africa. Authorities are promoting the country’s Mediterranean coastline, mountains, valleys, desert landscapes and archaeological sites as key tourism assets.

 

The summer campaign launch follows several recent developments aimed at rebuilding tourism infrastructure and international connectivity. In April 2026, Syria announced plans for The Beaumont, a mixed-use tourism development in Damascus valued at between US$250 million and US$300 million, featuring a hotel, residences and commercial facilities.

 

International air connectivity has continued to improve. Several GCC carriers resumed services to Damascus in 2025, while Etihad Airways is preparing to launch direct flights between Abu Dhabi’s Zayed International Airport (AUH) and Damascus International Airport (DAM) from June 2026.

 

Earlier this year, the Ministry of Tourism also opened the five-star Khan Suleiman Pasha Hotel in Damascus, housed within a restored Ottoman-era caravanserai dating back to 1736. Officials described the project as part of broader efforts to restore heritage assets and strengthen the visitor economy.

 

For more information, visit mots.gov.sy