View over the town of Seydnaya in Syria. (Image: Getty)
A boss says he’s hoping to resume trips to in the “not-too-distant future”, as a major international carrier began flying there again last week.
Turkish Airlines launched flights from Instanbul to the capital Damascus from January 23rd, with three flights a week, while Royal Jordanian is also expected to recommence services at the end of the month.
Qatar Airways started flying to Damascus earlier this month. That’s despite the febrile atmosphere that has persisted since the toppling of former President Bashar al-Asaad and his brutal, repressive regime by rebels.
The UK currently advises against all travel to due to the ongoing conflict and unpredictable security conditions.
“If you are a British national in Syria, leave the country by any practical means,” the department says on the Government with Britons warned over the high likelihood of terrorist attacks and the threat of kidnapping.
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Damascus skyline. (Image: Getty)
After Assad fled to , many people who escaped the country during the 14-year uprising-turned-civil war that rocked the country are now reportedly considering returning soon.
But UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, cautioned during a visit to the capital that many of the returnees may not remain unless there’s an improvement in living conditions, Associated Press reported.
Damascus is now under the control of rebel chief and de facto Syrian leader Ahmad al-Sharaa.
“In order to make this return sustainable and to make life better for all Syrians the economy needs to return, services need to be restored and reinstated, security needs to be guaranteed and housing needs to be the subject of a very important reconstruction program,” Grandi said.
Travel company Untamed Borders, which specialises in trips to less accessible countries, including in the Middle East, previously provided trips to parts of Syria but had to pause its operations due to the instability in the country.
Founder of the firm, James Willcox, says he’s keen to resume trips to the country when the security situation allows, and is communicating with contacts in Syria to monitor the situation.
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Umayyad Mosque in Damascus (Image: Getty)
Willcox said: “If Syria continues to move forward with a stable trajectory and if/when international travel advisories, such as those issued by the FCDO, are eased, we anticipate a significant increase in tourism to the country.
“Coupling the improving security situation, alongside having improved international flight connections, is only likely to further the interest from potential visitors – some who previously may have been hesitant to visit the nation.
“We certainly view this a positive sign of change, both for Syria’s recovery and for fostering a renewed interest in the country, which has a fascinating array of attractions for visitors.
“We are in regular contact with our local teams, and our wider network, to get a better understanding of the security situation and risk level at the moment.
“We hope to be resuming trips to Syria in the not-too-distant future and hope more tourists seize the opportunity and seek out an adventure in a wonderful nation,” he added.
You can find the latest FCDO advice and warnings .