.Syria recorded a significant rebound in tourism during the first half of 2026, with visitor arrivals more than doubling compared with the same period last year, according to figures released by the Ministry of Tourism

The country welcomed 3.52 million visitors between January and June 2026, up 111% from 1.67 million arrivals in the first half of 2025.

Growth was driven by a sharp rise in international tourism, with foreign visitor arrivals increasing 448% to 719,000, compared with 131,000 during the same period last year.

Turkey remained the largest international source market, followed by Germany, Sweden, the United States, the Netherlands, Canada and the United Kingdom, highlighting expanding demand beyond neighbouring countries.

Arab tourism also recorded strong growth, with arrivals from Arab countries rising 107% to 664,000.

Jordan was the largest Arab market, followed by Lebanon and Iraq, while visitor numbers from Gulf countries continued to increase.

The ministry attributed the growth to rising interest in Syria’s cultural heritage, historic sites and demand for authentic travel experiences.

Visits by Syrian expatriates also contributed significantly, increasing 75% to 2.13 million during the period, compared with 1.22 million in the first half of 2025.

The ministry said the diaspora continues to play an important role in supporting tourism recovery by strengthening international engagement and promoting awareness of Syria’s cultural and tourism offerings.

Looking ahead, Syria expects further tourism growth during the peak third-quarter season, supported by improved air connectivity, the return of airlines, increased hospitality investment, hotel development and a growing calendar of cultural events.

The government said the sector’s expansion is creating wider economic opportunities across aviation, hospitality, tourism services and investment, supporting its vision of developing a tourism-led economy.

Mazen Al-Salhani, Syria’s Minister of Tourism, said: "These figures mark an important shift in Syria's tourism landscape. The return of visitors from across the region and around the world reflects growing confidence in Syria as a destination and creates new momentum for investment, hospitality and tourism services. Tourism is no longer only about visitor numbers; it is becoming the foundation of a tourism-led economy that creates jobs, attracts investment, strengthens local businesses and deepens Syria's connections with regional and global markets."

Al-Salhani added: "Syria’s tourism sector is entering a new phase of growth, supported by rising demand from regional and international markets. This renewed interest in Syria as a travel destination signals stronger confidence in the country’s tourism potential and creates new opportunities for investment, hospitality and services. Beyond visitor numbers, this momentum is positioning tourism as a key pillar of sustainable economic development."

Al-Salhani concluded: "We are proud of the significant increase in visits by Syrian expatriates. They represent far more than a visitor segment; they are ambassadors for Syria around the world, sharing the country they experience today with their families, communities and international audiences. Every Syrian expatriate returning home has the opportunity to share an authentic picture of Syria, and every personal experience contributes to building confidence and strengthening Syria’s position on the global tourism map." -TradeArabia News Service