Syria’s transitional government has announced a complete update to the country’s official holidays through Presidential Decree No. 188 of 2025, redefining the national calendar for the post-Assad era.
For tourists, this isn’t just a political shift — it’s practical information that can help you plan your trip, choose the right dates, and avoid arriving on days when offices or sites are closed.
Below is a clear comparison between what changed, what stayed, and how these dates affect your travel plans.
A Quick Overview
The new holiday list blends Syria’s religious diversity with a new national identity narrative. While traditional Muslim and Christian holidays remain, several regime-era commemorations were removed, and two new national days were added — Syrian Revolution Day (March 18) and Liberation Day (December 8).
This restructuring reflects Syria’s new political reality after the fall of the Assad regime and the ongoing national transition.
What Stayed the Same
Despite the shake-up, most religious and civic holidays familiar to locals — and already known to tourists — continue as before:
| Holiday | Date (2025) | Notes for Tourists |
|---|---|---|
| Eid al-Fitr | varies (3 days) | Expect closures of shops, banks, and government offices; festive atmosphere in cities. |
| Eid al-Adha | varies (4 days) | Similar to Eid al-Fitr; family visits and animal markets. |
| Islamic New Year | varies | Government holiday; quiet day. |
| Mawlid al-Nabawi (Prophet’s Birthday) | varies | Mosques illuminated, public gatherings possible. |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | Celebrated by Christian communities nationwide. |
| Eastern & Western Easter | varies | Many Christian sites hold special liturgies — often a beautiful time to visit churches. |
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | National holiday; festive atmosphere in major cities. |
| Labour Day | May 1 | Public offices closed; tourist sites open. |
| Independence (Evacuation) Day | April 17 | National holiday celebrating the end of French rule; some parades or ceremonies. |
| Mother’s Day | March 21 | Observed socially, not disruptive to travel. |
These holidays already existed in the old calendar and remain largely unchanged.
What Was Removed
The government has abolished several regime-era commemorations once tied to the Baath Party and the Assad family legacy.
These dates will now be normal working days, which is good news for travelers — fewer unexpected closures.
| Former Holiday | Date | Status Now | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| October 6 – October War Anniversary | Oct 6 | ❌ Removed | Formerly celebrated the 1973 war; now dropped. |
| May 6 – Martyrs’ Day | May 6 | ❌ Removed | Honored fallen soldiers; removed from official list. |
| March 8 – Baath Revolution Day | Mar 8 | ❌ Removed | Linked to the 1963 coup; politically obsolete. |
| March 20 – Teachers’ Day | Mar 20 | ❌ Removed | No longer a national holiday. |
Impact for tourists:
These dates are now regular working days — meaning you can expect banks, government offices, and tourist sites to operate normally.
Newly Added Holidays and Why They Matter
1. Syrian Revolution Day – March 18
- What it commemorates: The start of the 2011 protests that sparked Syria’s revolution and ultimately ended the Assad era.
- Why it was added: The transitional government wants to honor this as a “national rebirth” moment — celebrating popular will and the start of political change.
- What to expect:
- March 18 is likely to include public gatherings, cultural events, and patriotic displays in major cities.
- Government offices and banks will be closed.
- Tourist attractions generally stay open, but you might encounter traffic restrictions or processions in central squares (especially Damascus, Aleppo, and Homs).
- For visitors, this can be a fascinating day to witness the new civic spirit of Syria — just plan transport accordingly.
2. Liberation Day – December 8
- What it commemorates: The fall of the Assad regime in 2024 — seen as the symbolic end of authoritarian rule.
- Why it was added: To anchor a new chapter in Syrian history, much like Bastille Day in France or Freedom Day in South Africa. It’s meant to unify Syrians around a shared sense of renewal.
- What to expect:
- Public ceremonies, speeches, and fireworks — especially in Damascus and provincial capitals.
- Banks, ministries, and offices closed; some small businesses may close early.
- Tourist sites generally open but may experience temporary closures or security measures around central squares.
- It’s a unique day to observe the post-war optimism of Syrian society.
Why These Changes Happened
The reform of Syria’s holiday calendar is deeply symbolic. It’s about reclaiming national memory after decades of one-party rule. Here’s what the changes mean in broader context:
- Breaking with the past:
Removing Baath-era holidays like March 8 and October 6 signals the end of regime-centered commemoration. - Reframing history:
Revolution Day and Liberation Day mark the new national identity — one rooted in civic resistance rather than military victory. - Balancing religion and modern statehood:
Keeping both Islamic and Christian holidays shows continuity and inclusivity, reflecting Syria’s religious diversity and shared cultural life. - Nation-building through symbolism:
These new dates act as “founding anniversaries” for the new Syria — promoting unity, pride, and healing after years of conflict.
How This Affects Tour Planning
1. Government Offices & Banks
All government offices, embassies, and banks close on official public holidays.
If you need to process visas, currency exchanges, or travel permits, avoid planning them on these dates.
2. Museums & Tourist Sites
Most museums, historical monuments, and archaeological sites remain open during holidays — especially in Damascus, Aleppo, and Palmyra — but with shorter operating hours. Always confirm with your local guide a day or two in advance.
3. Transport & Traffic
Large-scale celebrations (especially March 18 and December 8) can cause road closures in city centers. It’s best to keep those days flexible or use them for walking tours and photography.
4. Shops & Restaurants
During religious holidays like Eid or Christmas, smaller businesses might close temporarily, but restaurants and hotels catering to tourists generally stay open and often offer special meals or festivities.
5. Ideal Planning Windows
- March 20 – April 15: After Revolution Day but before Easter and Ramadan — stable weather and full business hours.
- May 10 – September 30: Long operational season; fewer interruptions.
- Late December: Combine Liberation Day and Christmas festivities for a lively, colorful experience — just book early.
Source: Al-Jazeera
Check our Complete Guide to Holidays and Opening Hours in Syria here.