Syria’s tourism sector continued its recovery during the first half of 2026, with visitor numbers more than doubling year-on-year as Arab travelers, returning expatriates and international tourists drove demand.

According to the Syrian Ministry of Tourism, the country welcomed 3.52 million visitors during the first six months of the year, an increase of 111% compared with 1.67 million arrivals during the same period in 2025.

Arab Arrivals More Than Double

Arab travelers accounted for 664,000 arrivals, up 107% year-on-year. Jordan was the largest source market, followed by Lebanon and Iraq. The ministry also reported continued growth in arrivals from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, although it did not disclose specific figures.

Returning Syrian expatriates remained the largest visitor segment, totaling 2.13 million arrivals, a 75% increase compared with the previous year.

International tourism also expanded rapidly. Non-Arab foreign arrivals rose 448% to 719,000 visitors, led by Turkey, followed by Germany, Sweden, the United States, the Netherlands, Canada and the United Kingdom.

Tourism Investment Accelerates

Growing visitor numbers are attracting significant investment into Syria’s tourism sector. Saudi Arabia’s Ezdihar Holding signed a 50-year joint venture agreement in April to develop The Beaumont, a twin-tower project valued at between US$250 million and US$300 million that will include a 150-room five-star hotel overlooking the Barada River.

Meanwhile, Emaar founder Mohamed Alabbar has announced plans to invest up to US$18 billion across Syria’s Mediterranean coast and Damascus, saying the country could attract eight million visitors annually within the next five years.

Hotels Reopen as Air Links Return

To support the recovery, Syria’s Ministry of Tourism has reopened the restored five-star Khan Suleiman Pasha Hotel and launched a modernization program covering 332 one- and two-star hotels aimed at budget-conscious travelers.

Regional connectivity is also expected to improve. Egypt and Syria are reportedly preparing to resume direct flights between Cairo and Damascus within the coming months, ending a 15-year suspension that began after flights were halted in 2011. Officials from both countries have recently discussed restoring air services to facilitate travel and strengthen bilateral ties.