Planning a trip to Syria? Whether you’re flying in or arriving by land, there are a few key ways to enter the country. This guide breaks down all your options—from airports to border transfers—so you can choose the one that fits your travel style and budget. Simple, clear, and up-to-date.
The 4 Entry Options
As of 2025, here are the main entry points into Syria:
| 1. Fly directly to Damascus | Yes | ~30 mins | ~$25 |
| 2. Fly directly to Aleppo | Yes | ~20 mins | ~$30 |
| 3. Fly to Beirut, transfer by car to Damascus | No | ~2.5–3 hrs | ~$220 (one way) |
| 4. Fly to Amman, transfer by car to Damascus | No | ~3.5–4 hrs | ~$130 (one way) |
1. Flying Directly to Damascus Airport (DAM)
Pros: Quickest access to the capital
Cons: Requires advance visa documentation before boarding and there will be visa fees.
Arrival Flights to Damascus
Operated mostly by Syrian Airlines and Cham Wings Airlines, you can fly to Damascus from several cities in the Gulf and Middle East. These include:
Syrian Airlines Flights
- From Dubai & Sharjah: Daily, around 12:30–13:30, flight time ~3 hours
- From Abu Dhabi: Tuesdays (20:20–22:20), Fridays (12:00–14:00)
- From Riyadh & Jeddah: Multiple weekly flights
- Jeddah examples: Sundays (10:50–13:20), Thursdays (18:45–21:05)
- From Dammam: Thursdays (10:25–13:00)
- From Doha (Qatar): Saturdays and Wednesdays (18:00–21:10)
- From Kuwait: Several times a week with varying schedules
Departures from Damascus
- To Dubai: Multiple daily options (e.g. 6:50, 7:10, 6:20 departures)
- To Sharjah: Friday to Wednesday (15:25–19:30)
- To Riyadh: Fridays, Saturdays, Wednesdays
- To Doha: Saturday & Wednesday (14:10–17:00)
Cham Wings Airlines (Additional Destinations)
Cham Wings connects Damascus with:
- Baghdad: Mon (8:00–9:30), Thu (18:30–20:00)
- Erbil: Tue & Fri (18:30–20:00)
- Kuwait: Daily – up to 3 flights/day
- Muscat: Mon (16:50–21:05), Thu (23:00–03:30)
Important Tip: Cham Wings is known to occasionally cancel flights without prior notice. Always double-check your flight 24 hours before and again a few hours before departure.
Other Options That Fly Directly to Damascus
In addition to Syrian Airlines and Cham Wings, the following international carriers now also operate direct flights to Damascus:
These airlines connect Syria to major global hubs such as Doha, Istanbul, and Amman, making it easier to reach Damascus from around the world.
2. Flying Directly to Aleppo Airport (ALP)
Pros: Perfect for those touring northern Syria, including Aleppo and surroundings
Cons: Limited direct international flights
Flights:
- Kuwait → Aleppo: Sundays & Thursdays (13:30–15:50) – ~$300 USD
- Aleppo → Kuwait: Same days (18:10–20:25)
Transfer to Aleppo city center: ~$30 USD via taxi or pre-arranged vehicle
3. Beirut Airport (Lebanon) ➡ Damascus by Land
Pros: Great option if you’re already exploring Lebanon
Cons: Longer travel time, border crossing
How it works:
- Land border crossing from Masnaa (Lebanon) to Jdeidet Yabous (Syria)
- Private transfer or arranged transport takes 2.5 to 3 hours
- Transfer cost: ~$130 USD (one way)
(Based on comfortable vehicles with reliable drivers)
Bonus: This route is very popular among travelers coming from Europe or the Americas, since Beirut has more international flight connections.
4. Amman Airport (Jordan) ➡ Damascus by Land
Pros: Practical route for travelers combining Jordan & Syria
Cons: Slightly longer journey by road
Route:
- Drive from Amman to Nassib Border, then onward to Damascus
- Travel time: ~3.5 to 4 hours
- Transfer cost: Around $220 USD one way
⚠️ You must have your visa pre-arranged before reaching the Jordan-Syria border.
Visa Requirements & Travel Document
If you’re flying directly to Damascus, you must apply for a visa in advance. Airlines will not allow you to board unless you have the visa document or approval letter.
- Visa processing help: Syrian Guides can help you get the visa documentation.
- Visa fees: Vary depending on nationality.
Check the full list here 👉 Syria Visa Fees 2025
Internet & Money in Syria
Once you arrive in Syria, here are the first things to take care of:
1. Get a SIM card at the airport
- Local providers available for tourists
- For details on mobile data, network quality, and SIM tips:
👉 Internet in Syria – Full Guide
2. Exchange Money
- Currency exchange is available at the airport
- Exchange rates are regulated by the Central Bank of Syria
- Learn how to avoid black market pitfalls here:
👉 Money in Syria – What Travelers Need to Know
Airport Transfers (Damascus)
- Airport Taxi: Around 250,000 SYP (~$25 USD)
- Yalla Go App: Syria’s local ride-hailing app (like Uber)
Download for Android
Can You Enter Syria from Turkey?
Unfortunately, entry to Syria from Turkey via land is currently not possible for tourists. This route remains closed due to political and security reasons.
Stick to the official entry points via Damascus, Aleppo, Beirut, or Amman.
Final Travel Tips
- Make sure your passport is free of Israel stamps
- Always carry printed copies of your visa, passport, and hotel bookings
- Consider booking with local tour companies to simplify border formalities and travel logistics
Ready to Explore?
Syria may not be the most conventional travel destination, but that’s exactly what makes it so unique. With the right information and preparation, your visit can be smooth, safe, and deeply rewarding.
If you’re looking for local guidance, help with your visa, or tour ideas—don’t hesitate to check out Syrian Guides, where experienced travel professionals are ready to assist.