Arrive prepared.
Discover Syria.
The practical details that make a difference: entry documents, border transfers, new Syrian banknotes, staying connected and experiencing the country respectfully.
Reviewed 6 November 2026 · Advice from local guides
01 / Entry documents, visas & insurance
Verify your personal requirements before booking non-refundable transport.
Visa and approval
Most foreign visitors need a visa or other entry permission. Visa-on-arrival eligibility, approval requirements and government fees vary with your nationality and how you enter. Airlines may request specific documents before boarding.
- Check passport validity and whether your nationality requires advance approval.
- Carry digital and offline copies of approvals, confirmed hotels and driver contacts.
- Ask us about your specific dates, passport and arrival point; do not assume another traveller’s experience applies to you.
Useful resources: visa requirements, visa-fee guide and entry routes.
Travel advice: The UK FCDO advises against all travel to Syria, and consular assistance is limited. Review your own government’s advice and check insurance exclusions, medical coverage and emergency arrangements. See the UK advisory.
02 / Money in Syria: new 2026 banknotes
Syria’s redesigned currency makes many older online money guides misleading.
Understand old and new pounds
Syria removed two zeros from the currency in January 2026. The former notes ceased to be legal tender after 30 July 2026, so use the redesigned notes for everyday purchases.
- Plan for cash: International cards and ATM withdrawals may not work reliably.
- Bring USD: Clean, undamaged notes in useful denominations, plus some contingency cash.
- Check the unit: Confirm whether an amount is quoted in old or new Syrian pounds before comparing prices.
- Avoid fixed rates: Exchange rates change, and old articles can quote obsolete values.
See our detailed Money in Syria guide and the currency introduction article.
03 / Getting to Syria
Choose the route that works with your flights and entry permissions.
Fly to Damascus or Aleppo
Both airports have international services, but routes and schedules can change. Check airline boarding documents, permissions and your pickup in advance.
Travel from Beirut
The Masnaa–Jdeidet Yabous crossing is a common land route. Allow time for immigration and confirm the transfer arrangements with your organiser.
Travel from Amman
The Jaber–Nassib crossing may be appropriate for your itinerary. Check the crossing’s procedures, operating hours and entry eligibility.
With Syrian Guides: We’ll send meeting arrangements before a confirmed transfer. Check whether a Beirut transfer is included in your group tour or private trip.
04 / At the airport or border
Keep your documents and important contacts within reach.
Passport & approvals
Use the passport listed in your visa or entry application and carry the relevant approvals.
Immigration
Follow official directions. Queues, checks and vehicle handovers depend on the crossing and day.
Government fees
Confirm the applicable fee and accepted payment method for your nationality, and keep receipts.
Offline contacts
Save your driver, hotel address, itinerary and travel documents in case data is unavailable.
05 / Staying connected and powered up
SIM cards and mobile data
Options and registration requirements change. See our internet guide.
Maps and messaging
Download maps, confirmation messages and contact numbers before crossing the border.
Electricity
Bring a power bank and suitable plug adapter; interruptions are possible.
Online services
Some websites and apps work inconsistently. Check essential services before departure.
06 / Hotels, everyday life and local customs
Traditional courtyard guesthouses
Many memorable places to stay are tucked into Old Damascus. Vehicles may not reach the door, so ask about luggage assistance.
Walking, weather and clothing
Expect uneven paving, historic steps and time on foot. Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection and seasonal layers; respect dress guidance at religious sites.
Food and photography
Try traditional restaurants and cafés, use safe drinking water and share dietary needs in advance. Ask before photographing people and avoid sensitive security locations.
Read our accommodation guide and Discover Syria.
07 / Your packing checklist
Documents & finances
- Passport, visas and any approvals
- Flights, transfer and hotel confirmations
- Offline copies of important documents
- Clean USD cash and a small emergency reserve
- Appropriate travel insurance, if available
Everyday essentials
- Comfortable walking shoes and seasonal layers
- Sun protection and water bottle
- Power bank, adapters and charging cables
- Personal medication and prescriptions
- Offline maps and phone contacts
Returning through Lebanon or Jordan? Allow generous time for border checks and traffic. Do not plan a close onward flight connection based on an old transfer estimate.
08 / Frequently asked before departure
Can I pay with an international card?
Card acceptance and international ATM access may be unreliable. Plan cash expenses and verify your exchange arrangements.
Do I need advance visa approval?
It depends on your passport, route and airline. Verify the correct entry procedure before travelling.
Can I still spend the old Syrian banknotes?
No. The former notes lost legal tender status after 30 July 2026. Use the redesigned Syrian pound notes.
Can you arrange my transfer?
We can arrange confirmed airport or land-border transfers for eligible tours and private bookings. Details depend on the specific package.
For more answers, explore our Syria travel FAQ.
Continue planning
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Let us help you explore Syria
From transfers and hotels to local guiding and unforgettable experiences, we’ll help you plan an itinerary around your interests.
Reviewed: 6 November 2026. Entry rules, air routes, government travel warnings and currency procedures may change. For official reference see UK government travel advice and the currency introduction decree.