Damascus Dimashq, Syria Travel Guide
Entry into Syria for foreign nationals is complex and highly restricted. Visa and entry requirements change without notice and often need extensive security clearances. International governments strongly advise against travel to Syria; this remains a main consideration.
All foreign nationals, with few exceptions for specific Arab countries, need a visa. These exceptions are also subject to stringent security checks and often need pre-approval. Applications typically proceed through a Syrian your country's embassy or consulate of residence.
Travel outside Damascus and other main urban centers typically needs special licenses and often a security escort. Access to specific areas may be entirely restricted or highly dangerous. Your Syrian tour operator or sponsor must arrange necessary permits from the Ministry of Tourism and security agencies for sites outside the capital.
Syria does not officially call for specific vaccinations for entry from most countries, but proof of yellow fever vaccination is needed if you arrive from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.
Direct visa and passport service
Expedited visa processing for many countries.
Syrian visa processing remains complex, even with assistance.
Consumer visa application service
Simplified online application process for various visas.
Always confirm Syria's specific requirements directly with an embassy.
Your main visa source
The most accurate and up-to-date visa information.
Start your application months in advance due to long processing times.
Your travel documents are your most important possessions. Keep them secure, organized, and have multiple copies. Carry your the original passport document and physical visa stamp. Ensure your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your departure date. Keep several physical duplicates of your passport's main page and your Syrian visa, separate from your originals.
Store digital copies (scans) of your passport, visa, and any other important documents securely in cloud storage (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox) and email them to yourself. Maintain multiple forms of communication with your local fixer, guide, or tour operator. They remain your main resource for immediate assistance. Keep family and friends at home informed of your itinerary and check in regularly.
Originals, plus multiple physical and digital copies.
Policy details for crisis response/high-risk areas.
Original or certified copy.
Doctor's notes for all medications.
Local and international contact information.
The healthcare infrastructure in Syria has seen severe damage and degradation. Access to quality medical care, especially specialized services or facilities meeting international standards, remains extremely limited. The availability of many medications may be scarce or unreliable.
Consult a travel health professional 4-6 weeks before any planned travel for personalized advice.
Tap water is generally unsafe for drinking. Drink only bottled water with an unbroken seal, or water that has been boiled or chemically treated.
The main safety concern in Damascus is the risk of conflict, including shelling, bombings, and general insecurity. While central Damascus and the Old City have noticed increased stability, the situation remains volatile and unpredictable.
Normal travel insurance policies almost universally exclude coverage for travel to war zones or areas under official "Do Not Travel" advisories (like Syria). Specialized insurance is essential for those choosing to travel.
If you choose to travel, specialized "crisis response," "war zone," or "high-risk area" insurance is necessary. This insurance carries a high cost and has stringent limitations.
This type of insurance typically covers emergency evacuation, kidnap and ransom, and some medical expenses. It often explicitly excludes acts of war or terrorism. Always thoroughly review any specialized policy's terms and conditions, as many standard policies become void if you travel against government advice.
Covers emergency transport to a fitting medical facility, sometimes outside the country.
A life-saving provision in high-risk zones.
Standard policies almost always exclude this for Syria.
Specialized policies may cover negotiation and recovery costs in a kidnapping scenario.
Critical consideration for high-risk travel.
Verify specific terms and payout limits carefully.
Most policies explicitly exclude incidents directly related to acts of war or terrorism.
Some specialty policies may offer limited coverage.
A major exclusion to understand fully for Syria.
| Service | Number | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Police | 112 | Reliability varies based on local situation. |
| Ambulance | 110 | May be overwhelmed, under-resourced. |
| Fire | 113 | Response times can be slow. |
A well-stocked personal first aid kit and an adequate supply of personal health items are necessary, given the limitations of local medicalcare and medication availability. Access to reliable power and internet can be inconsistent, making certain electronics important for safety, communication, and capturing memories.
Band-Aids, antiseptic wipes, sanitized gauze, medical tape.
Acetaminophen/Ibuprofen, Anti-diarrhea medication (Loperamide/Imodium), ORS.
Antihistamines, Hydrocortisone cream for insect bites.
Carry all prescription medications with a doctor's note.
Keep medications in original, clearly labeled packaging. Check if any are restricted in Syria. Over-the-counter remedies for colds, flu, and motion sickness are also wise additions. Local availability may be limited.
Bring preferred brands of toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste), feminine hygiene products, and travel-size laundry detergent. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer is useful when soap and water are not available.
Pack a Personal first aid kit.
Syria uses 220V, 50Hz with Type C, E, and F plugs. A universal Travel adapter with multiple plug types is advisable.
Portable chargers and power banks are necessary owing to potential for frequent power outages. Nordace offers modern travel bags and accessories that could include power banks.
Be discreet when taking photos, especially near government buildings, military installations, checkpoints, or where security personnel are present. Always get consent before taking pictures of people.
Major international ride-sharing or local service apps are unlikely to be accessible or useful for foreign travelers due to sanctions and local infrastructure.
Download maps of Damascus (Maps.me, Google Maps offline) before you depart. GPS functionality works without an internet connection.
Google Translate with Arabic language pack downloaded for offline use helps overcome language barriers.
WhatsApp and Telegram see wide use for communication. They help stay in touch with local contacts or family.
