Hamah Hama, Syria Travel Guide
Mobile providers include Syriatel and MTN Syria, with strict security controls. Coverage might not be reliable. Internet access is controlled, slow, and potentially unreliable. Assume communications are monitored.
Arabic is the official language. Syrian Arabic dialect is commonly spoken. English and French are spoken by some educated individuals in larger cities, but not widely in Hama.
Syrian Post operates, but international services are often unreliable and subject to delays or interception. Do not rely on postal services for important documents.
Learning a few basic phrases can facilitate interactions.
Confirm operating hours with area contacts. Expect flexibility and potential disruptions.
Demonstrate respect for local customs. Observe and adapt to local behavior.
Handshakes are common, especially between men. When greeting women, wait for those to initiate. Direct eye contact is generally acceptable. Use formal greetings if unsure.
Conservative dress is expected. Men and women should keep shoulders and knees covered. Women should consider loose-fitting clothing and a headscarf when visiting religious sites or conservative areas.
Always ask permission before photographing individuals. Photography near government buildings, military installations, or checkpoints is strictly prohibited. Exercise extreme caution.
Eat with your right hand. Avoid pointing the soles of your feet at people. Tipping (Baksheesh) is customary for amenities in restaurants, hotels, and taxis. A small tip shows appreciation.
Avoid discussing politics, religion, or the ongoing conflict. These topics are highly sensitive. Public displays of affection are frowned upon.
Cultural respect is a required aspect of any presence in Syria. Your actions reflect on your nationality.
Accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges is extremely limited in Hama and throughout Syria.
Infrastructure is generally not designed for accessibility. Sidewalks are often uneven or non-existent. Public buildings rarely have ramps or elevators. Conflict damage has severely exacerbated this issue.
Very limited or non-existent. The public transit system is not accessible. Many historical sites feature uneven terrain or stairs, rendering them difficult to navigate.
Services for visually or hearing-impaired travelers are very limited or non-existent. There are no readily offered services or specialized infrastructure to support these needs.
Not applicable for tourism. No dedicated resources or organizations provide accessibility information for foreign travelers in Syria.
Travelers with mobility or other accessibility needs will face significant challenges in Hama. Plan accordingly if essential travel is required.
