Event recap — reviewed 6 November 2026: The 63rd Damascus International Fair concluded on 4 September 2026. This page now reports on the completed fair rather than providing dates, tickets or transport instructions for an upcoming event. For current activities in Syria, see our latest Syria travel news and travel guide.
From 26 August to 4 September 2026, the 63rd Damascus International Fair brought business representatives, producers, government organisations and visitors together at the Damascus Fairgrounds on the airport road. Held under the theme “Syria Shines Again,” the event combined trade and investment meetings with public exhibitions, Syrian crafts and cultural activities.
2026 Damascus International Fair: key results
According to figures reported by the organisers through the Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA), the fair attracted approximately 1.4 million visits over ten days, with nearly 1,000 participating entities from around 60 countries. These are organiser-reported figures, not independently audited visitor or company counts.
The organisers also reported preliminary economic output exceeding 150 billion Syrian pounds, including announced contracts, supply arrangements and memorandums of understanding. Such figures represent declared business activity connected to the fair; they should not be interpreted as proof that every announced investment has already been delivered or paid.
What was on display?
Exhibitors represented Syrian, regional and international businesses in industry, construction, agriculture, technology, energy, transport, food, textiles, consumer goods and related services. More than 40 Syrian ministries and public institutions also participated, according to SANA’s closing coverage.
The first three days, 26–28 August, focused on professional, investment and business meetings. The fair then opened to the wider public from 29 August through 4 September. The event-time public access arrangements, free buses and visiting hours were temporary and must not be used for a future edition.
The cultural side of the fair
Although primarily a commercial exhibition, the fair offered visitors a look at Syrian traditions as well as contemporary business activity. A “Damascene Quarter” installation showcased Old Damascus through traditional storytelling, shadow theatre, folk music, games and food. Cultural pavilions also presented arts, clothing and handicrafts from participating countries.
For visitors interested in traditional Syrian crafts and living culture, this offered a different perspective on Damascus from the city’s historic mosques, courtyard houses and souqs. You can discover those experiences year-round through our things to do in Damascus guide and private tour options.
Why did the 2026 edition matter?
The fair gave local producers opportunities to meet buyers, present products and explore international partnerships as Syria’s economy and tourism sector seek to rebuild connections. An inaugural Damascus World Economic Forum ran alongside the fair, providing a further platform for public-private investment discussions.
The fair was an economic and cultural event, not a change to tourist visa, airport or border rules. Visitors planning a trip to Syria should continue to verify entry documents, airline services and practical transfer arrangements for their nationality and route. Our Syria entry guide explains the main routes.
Event details and sources
Event: 63rd Damascus International Fair
Dates: 26 August–4 September 2026 (completed)
Venue: Damascus International Fairgrounds, Airport Road
Reported participation: Nearly 1,000 entities from around 60 countries
Reported turnout: Approximately 1.4 million visitors.
Sources: SANA — closing report, 4 September 2026; SANA — organisers’ reported results, 5 September 2026; SANA — public opening and business-session schedule; SANA — Damascene Quarter cultural programme.