Frequently Asked Questions

Read this first. As of August 2026 the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advises against all travel to Syria, and the US Department of State has Syria at Level 4 — Do Not Travel, citing terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping and armed conflict. Britain's embassy services in Damascus are suspended and the US embassy has not operated since 2012, so neither government can offer consular help inside the country.

This guide is written for people who have weighed that and decided to travel anyway, often to visit family. It is not a substitute for the advisories. Read them in full, and check them again close to departure.

Is it safe to visit?

Both the UK and US governments say no. The FCDO advises against all travel to Syria, and the State Department rates it Level 4 — Do Not Travel. Neither can help you from inside the country, since UK embassy services in Damascus are suspended and the US embassy has been closed since 2012.

Travellers and tour operators do move through Damascus, Aleppo, Homs and the coast, and describe the main routes between them as manageable. Both things are true at once. The decision is yours, and it should be an informed one rather than one based on either the advisories alone or a reassuring blog post alone.

Do I need a visa in advance?

Sources disagree. The FCDO says yes, and allow five to seven working days. Operators and recent travellers report visa-on-arrival at the airport and land borders, paid in cash US dollars. Confirm your own case before travelling — see Before You Travel.

Will my bank card work?

Assume not. Bring cash in US dollars. Syria's central bank authorised licensed banks to work with Visa and Mastercard in May 2026 and reconnection is underway, but acceptance is limited and uneven. Do not plan around it.

Can I enter with an Israeli stamp in my passport?

No. Evidence of travel to Israel means refusal, as does Israeli nationality. The FCDO also lists Iranian citizenship as a bar.

What should I wear?

Modest dress, for men and women alike — covered arms and legs, long trousers rather than shorts. Women should carry a headscarf for mosques. See Local Etiquette.

How do I get between cities?

Buses and shared taxis. Trains remain suspended. See Getting Around.

Is there internet and phone coverage?

Mobile coverage works in the cities and a local SIM is straightforward to buy. Expect interruptions, and expect electricity to be intermittent, which affects wifi. Download maps and documents for offline use.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring and autumn. Damascus summers are hot and dry; winter is cool and can be wet. Ramadan changes the rhythm of everything — many places close during daylight and open late into the night. It is a remarkable time to visit if you plan around it.

Can I visit as a woman travelling alone?

Women do, and generally report warmth and help rather than trouble. Dress modestly, take normal precautions, and expect more questions about why you are travelling alone than you would elsewhere.

What about travel insurance?

Standard policies are usually void where a government advises against travel. You need a specialist policy naming Syria, and you should read the exclusions closely.