Moving to Syria

Despite the recent fall of the previous regime, Syria remains fragmented with ongoing conflict due to different factions vying for power. There is also a severe humanitarian crisis and large-scale infrastructure damage from years of fighting, making Syria a largely unsuitable expat destination. 

Nevertheless, if you are considering travelling or moving to Syria, we recommend researching the status of your specific destination within the country and consulting your consulate for updated information on the region.

Living in Syria as an expat

Expats and travellers mostly live in cities such as Damascus, Homs, Aleppo, Latakia, and Tartus, which are now considered much safer. However, we'd still advise caution and, again, thorough research before travelling to these. Some places in Syria, such as the city of Idlib, are still off limits. Travellers and expats should avoid these at all costs.

As a result of the drawn-out conflict, safety and security have been major concerns for expats living in Syria. The expat population is, therefore, considerably smaller than it once was, but it seems expats and travellers are slowly starting to brave this once-beautiful country again.

Cost of living in Syria

On average, the cost of living in Syria is much lower than that of most Western countries. You will find the price of food and accommodation very affordable. Those earning salaries in foreign currencies won't have a hard time building a good life in Syria.

Families and children in Syria

In the past, Syria was a popular destination for expats who were relocated to work in its petroleum industry or as diplomatic personnel. With this in mind, the country has developed infrastructure to support its expat population. 

Syria is home to a range of international schools for expat children and some excellent private hospitals, which are sure to start operating again as expats start returning.

Climate in Syria

The climate on the coast of Syria is Mediterranean. Winters are mild and rainy, while summers are hot. The rest of the country’s vast inland areas are more arid subtropical. Here, winters can be moderately cold and summers scorching. During spring, Syria is often affected by strong winds, which can cause sandstorms and lead to increased temperatures.

Syria is a fascinating country full of history, natural beauty and historical architecture, and as this vibrant destination works towards charting a new course, expats will hopefully soon be able to take full advantage of it without fear.

Fast facts

Population: Estimated to be 22.5 million, but prone to fluctuation as refugees return from neighbouring countries

Capital city (and largest city): Damascus

Neighbouring countries: Lebanon, Turkey, Iraq, Jordan, and Israel

Geography: Most of Syria is an arid plateau, with a green strip in the northwest along the Mediterranean Sea. The Euphrates River crosses Syria in the east. 

Political system: Unitary dominant-party semi-presidential republic (under transformation, with a current transitional government)

Major religion: Islam

Main languages: Arabic

Money: Syrian pound (SYP), subdivided into 100 qirsh

Time: UTC+2 (UTC+3 from late March to late October)

Electricity: 220V, 50Hz

Internet domain: .sy

International dialling code: +963

Emergency contacts: 110 (ambulance), 112 (police), 113 (fire)

Transport and driving: Drives on the right. Although most of these services have been disrupted by the ongoing conflict, public transport in Syria includes buses, shared minibuses, taxis, and trains.