Syria Sees Tourism Surge

Foreign visitor arrivals jump 448% in first half of 2026

TDT | Manama

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Syria recorded a sharp rise in tourism during the first half of 2026, with total visitor arrivals increasing by 111 per cent compared with the same period last year, according to the Ministry of Tourism.

Official figures showed that 3.52 million visitors arrived between January and June 2026, up from 1.67 million during the first half of 2025.

The strongest growth came from international tourists, whose arrivals surged by 448% to 719,000 from 131,000 a year earlier. Visitors from Arab countries also more than doubled, rising 107% to 664,000.

Global Interest Grows

Turkey was the leading source of international visitors, followed by Germany, Sweden, the United States, the Netherlands, Canada and the United Kingdom, highlighting growing interest from European and North American travellers.

Among Arab countries, Jordan ranked first, followed by Lebanon and Iraq, while arrivals from Gulf states also continued to increase.

The ministry attributed the rise to increasing interest in Syria's cultural heritage, historical sites and authentic travel experiences.

Tourism Minister Mazen Al-Salhani said the figures reflected growing confidence in Syria as a travel destination and would help stimulate investment, hospitality and tourism services.

He added that tourism was becoming a key driver of economic growth by creating jobs, attracting investment and supporting local businesses.

Diaspora Visits Rise

Visits by Syrians living abroad also increased significantly, reaching 2.13 million during the first six months of 2026, compared with 1.22 million during the same period last year—a rise of 75%.

The ministry said returning expatriates were helping strengthen Syria's international image by sharing their experiences and encouraging more people to visit.

Al-Salhani described the Syrian diaspora as “ambassadors” for the country, saying their visits play an important role in promoting Syria's tourism potential worldwide.