Damascus Dimashq, Syria Travel Guide
Syriatel and MTN Syria are the main mobile network operators. It is not straightforward for short-term visitors.
Arabic is the official language. English speakers are less common among the general population. Learning basic Arabic phrases proves beneficial for daily interactions and shows cultural respect.
Basic Arabic phrases for polite exchanges in daily interactions.
General Postal Establishment runs services. Mail to other countries may face unreliability or delays. Foreign credit and debit cards generally face non-acceptance due to international sanctions.
Internet access may face government monitoring. Exercise caution when communicating sensitive information.
Operating hours vary across different businesses in Damascus.
Open Sunday-Thursday, approximately 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Friday and Saturday are weekend days.
Typically open Saturday-Thursday, 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, often with an afternoon break. Many souks close Friday.
Many open from the end of morning until late evening, often past 10:00 PM, especially in lively areas.
Banks generally open Sunday-Thursday, typically 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM.
These holidays close government business premises and limit business hours.
Review local event listings for specific dates of holidays during your planned visit. Be mindful of Ramadan schedules.
Syria is a conservative society with strong traditions. Your actions and interactions should reflect respect and understanding.
Handshakes are common between men. Women may shake hands with other women. Avoid initiating physical contact with the opposite sex unless they extend their hand first.
Modest dress holds importance in public for both men and women (shoulders and knees covered).
Eat with your right hand, especially when taking food from communal dishes or using bread. Accepting offers of tea or coffee is polite.
Always seek permission to photograph people, especially women and children. A polite "Mumkin soura?" (May I take a picture?) comes in handy.
Learn basic Arabic phrases to improve interactions. Dress modestly and observe local customs, especially regarding photography and sensitive topics.
Accessibility for travelers with disabilities remains very limited in Damascus. No specific services for the visually or hearing impaired are widely available.
Infrastructure generally does not feature accessibility design. Sidewalks are often uneven, broken, or absent. Ramps are rare.
Public transportation (buses) is not accessible. Taxis may be an option, but vehicles are not modified for accessibility.
No specific services or infrastructure are widely available for tourists with visual or hearing impairments.
No dedicated resources or organizations specifically providing accessibility information for travel to Damascus exist.
Travelers with mobility needs must plan extensively and secure specialized assistance. Accessibility infrastructure is sparse.
