The United States has formally removed Syria from its list of State Sponsors of Terrorism, ending a designation that had remained in place since 1979.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the decision on 24 August 2026 after the mandatory 45-day congressional review period concluded without objection. The United States also revoked the designation of Hay’at Tahrir al-Sham as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist organization.
The decision follows earlier measures that lifted broad economic sanctions on Syria. It removes another major legal obstacle to international investment, financial cooperation and the country’s gradual reconnection with global markets.
What Does This Mean for Travelers?
For our guests, the announcement is an encouraging sign of Syria’s changing international position. It could eventually support improved banking services, international payments, foreign investment and stronger air and tourism connections.
However, the decision does not immediately change Syria’s visa requirements, airline boarding procedures or foreign government travel advisories. Travelers should continue following the existing entry procedures and checking the latest requirements before departure.
Syrian Guides will continue monitoring any practical changes affecting visas, flights, payments and travel arrangements, and we will keep our guests informed as new details are announced.
Source: Syrian Arab News Agency