Syria partners with Saudi firms to digitize tourism sector
Agreement aims to modernize tourism services through digital platforms, cybersecurity and data systems as visitor numbers continue rising
DAMASCUS, Syria (MNTV) — Syria has signed a memorandum of understanding with three Saudi technology companies to accelerate the digital transformation of its tourism sector as the government seeks to modernize services and support the industry’s recovery.
The agreement was signed in Damascus between the Ministry of Tourism and Saudi firms Tamkeen, Cipher and Hawaz.
The signing ceremony was attended by Tourism Minister Mazen Al-Salhani, representatives of the three companies, members of the Syrian-Saudi Business Council and senior ministry officials.
The partnership aims to establish an integrated digital ecosystem that will improve tourism services, enhance visitors’ experiences and strengthen the ministry’s institutional capabilities through advanced technology.
“Digital transformation is not simply a technology project — it is a strategic pillar of rebuilding a more competitive, resilient and future-ready tourism sector,” Al-Salhani said.
He said the ministry intends to go beyond adopting digital tools by creating an integrated system built on trusted data, effective governance and strong cybersecurity. Al-Salhani added that the ministry aims to become a model for digital government within the tourism sector.
Under the agreement, the partners will develop a unified digital platform for tourism services and reservations, alongside a national tourism portal providing information on destinations, attractions and events across Syria.
The project also includes measures to strengthen cybersecurity, improve data governance and introduce advanced data collection and analytics systems to support policymaking and long-term planning.
According to the Ministry of Tourism, Syria received approximately 3.52 million visitors during the first half of 2026, more than double the 1.67 million recorded during the same period last year. International tourist arrivals increased by 448% to around 719,000.
The agreement forms part of Syria’s broader strategy to rebuild its tourism industry through investment and modernization.
In November, the ministry signed an executive cooperation program with the Arab Tourism Organization and announced tourism-related investment agreements and memorandums of understanding worth about $1.5 billion for hotels, resorts, entertainment projects and the restoration of historic sites.
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