Location: Middle East
Capital: Damascus
Time zone: GMT/UTC plus 2 hours
Daylight savings time: during northern hemisphere summer
Current time: 12:42
Population: 23,482,303
Currency: Syrian pound
Dialling code: +963
Internet suffix: .sy
Syria is a Middle Eastern country known for its history and culture, although its current instability makes it a very challenging traveller destination.
Overall security situation: very high levels of insecurity
Social tensions and grievances: significant parts of society have very strong grievances
State resilience capabilities: institutions are amongst the least resilient in the world and would struggle severely in the event of any future shock, crisis or disaster
Conflict situation: major conflict has claimed thousands of lives over the past year
Civil unrest: moderately high level of risk; protests are occasional but they are prone to causing significant disruption and/or fatal violence
Terrorism: extremely high level of risk with frequent terrorist incidents causing extensive damage and numerous casualties
Crime: moderate crime rate with petty and violent crimes
Murder rate: low (although politically-motivated killings have become very common)
Gun ownership levels: moderately low in comparison to the rest of the world
Kidnapping hotspot: yes
Maritime piracy hotspot: no
Do landmines/unexploded munitions pose a significant risk in parts of the country: no
Aviation safety levels: potential concerns
Annual road fatality rates: very high
Vehicles drive on the: right
Infrastructure quality: very poor
Urban ATM availability: limited
Electricity supply: 220V 50Hz
Electricity supply reliability: very poor
Plug types: C, E and L
Plug type C (2 round pins, not grounded/earthed)
Plug type E (2 round pins with 1 round hole to accommodate a round pin from the socket, grounded/earthed, socket compatible with plug types C and F)
Plug type L (3 round pins on a horizontal plane, grounded/earthed)
Is tap water drinkable: no
Healthcare quality: very poor
Infectious disease prevalence: extremely low
Vaccinations
Travellers should consult a medical practitioner prior to their trip but the following vaccines may be considered before travelling to the country, depending on factors such as specific destination, planned activities, intended time and length of stay as well as personal medical conditions (in some cases no additional vaccines may be required at all):
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B (not always needed)
- Rabies (usually only for long-term stays, or for those spending time in isolated areas or coming into contact with animals)
- Typhoid
- Standard vaccinations (ie those commonly used in the developed world, such as diphtheria, measles, mumps, polio, rubella, tuberculosis and tetanus)
Disease presence
Malaria risk: none
Yellow fever presence: no
Dengue fever prevalence: rare/non-existent
Rabies prevalence: high risk
HIV prevalence in society: low
Hepatitis A prevalence: high
Hepatitis B prevalence: intermediate
Hepatitis E prevalence: not highly endemic
Cholera status: low risk
Chikungunya virus presence: not present
Zika virus presence: not recently reported
Japanese encephalitis presence: no
Cutaneous leishmaniasis presence: endemic
Visceral leishmaniasis presence: endemic
Onchocerciasis presence: non-endemic
Schistosomiasis presence: low
Tick-borne encephalitis status: low/non-existent risk
Chagas disease presence: none
Typhoid fever presence: endemic
African trypanosomiasis presence: none
Plague status: not thought to be present
Rift Valley fever status: not present
Lassa fever status: not present
Polio status: not endemic
Ebola outbreaks: no
Meningococcal meningitis hotspot: no
Climate: mostly desert; hot, dry, sunny summers (June to August) and mild, rainy winters (December to February) along coast; cold weather with snow or sleet periodically in Damascus
Terrain: primarily semiarid and desert plateau; narrow coastal plain; mountains in west
Natural disaster risk: moderate
Natural hazards: dust storms; sandstorms; extreme temperatures; flooding; drought; wildfires
Tropical storms: few/none
Volcanic activity: Syria’s two historically active volcanoes, Es Safa and an unnamed volcano near the Turkish border have not erupted in centuries
Previous earthquake(s) with over 1,000 fatalities: no
Government type: republic under an authoritarian regime
Socio-economic development score: 5/10 (medium levels of socio-economic development)
Adult literacy rate: 86.4%
Unemployment rate: one of the highest unemployment rates in the world
Civil liberties: highly restricted
Investment rating: not rated
Corruption levels: high
Same-sex sexual activity: illegal
Death penalty: in use
Languages: Arabic (official), Kurdish, Armenian, Aramaic, Circassian (widely understood); French
Ethnic groups: Arab 90.3%, Kurds, Armenians, and other 9.7%
Beliefs: Muslim 87% (official; includes Sunni 74% and Alawi, Ismaili, and Shia 13%), Christian (includes Orthodox, Uniate, and Nestorian) 10% (includes Orthodox, Uniate, and Nestorian), Druze 3%, Jewish (few remaining in Damascus and Aleppo)
General guidelines
- The following advice has been compiled by travel safety specialists and ex-special forces personnel.
- However, please note that it is of a general nature only and may not reflect the reality of your circumstances.
- Ensure you have proper insurance cover in place.
- Select good quality accommodation and properly prepare for any tasks, excursions or other activities you have to undertake.
- Be mindful of local laws and cultural norms, bearing in mind that they might be different to what you are accustomed to.
- Consider conducting or obtaining a risk assessment specific to you, your profile and your trip, task or operation.
- This should take into account the likelihood of potential risks affecting you, as well as the likely impact they will have, and will help you decide, depending on your risk appetite and implementable risk mitigation measures, whether or not you should proceed.
Foreign government warnings
- Pay attention to the advice issued by your government and/or other countries (such as the US or UK).
- For most travellers, it will be very much advisable to avoid any areas deemed to be high-risk by official government bodies.
- For those who need to travel to these locations for work, personal or other essential reasons should consider the risks likely to be present and take appropriate measures.
- Insurance may not be valid for travel undertaken to these areas, so it is advisable to check with your provider before travel.
- Note that areas of official high-risk might change at short notice.
Infrastructure
- Be prepared for potentially poor-quality roads and other forms of transportation.
- This can make it difficult to get around.
- Consider obtaining a high-quality vehicle that can handle difficult terrain if you intend to travel anywhere with particularly bad-quality roads.
- Bear in mind that traffic safety conditions may be poor.
- Try to ensure that any accommodation or workplace is located in a good quality building.
- Bear in mind that in the event of an accident or emergency, the emergency response services may have very limited resources available.
Road traffic accident
- Be aware of local driving conditions and hazards.
- Drive defensively and adhere to speed limits to minimise the risk of being caught up in an accident, or request that your driver(s) do the same.
- If using a taxi or local driver, ensure that they are qualified and competent and that their vehicle appears well maintained.
- Ensure that vehicles are in good working order before travel.
- Perform regular checks on your vehicles for oil, fuel, tyres and seatbelts.
- Consider taking additional equipment such as a jack, spare tyres, water, blankets, torches and a first aid kit, especially if travelling to more rural or isolated areas.
- Consider using four-wheel drive vehicles for particularly poor road conditions.
- Car users should know how to perform emergency repairs.
Aviation safety
- Try to use reputable airlines.
- Check the safety records of any companies you use to charter flights.
- Check the weather forecast in advance of travel – particularly for domestic flights.
- Consider delaying your trip or using an alternative means of transport rather than taking a risky flight.
Healthcare
- Bear in mind that healthcare facilities and services may be significantly less extensive than more developed countries.
- There may be very limited facilities, staff, techniques and medications available, especially in more isolated or underdeveloped areas.
- There may not be adequate reliable blood supplies in local hospitals.
- Pharmacists and other sources of even basic medical products may be difficult to find.
- Aim to be as medically self-sufficient as possible, taking basic medical supplies.
- Research whether or not certain medications are legal in your destination(s).
- Take extra supplies of any routinely-taken medicines.
- It may also be advisable to have them accompanied by a note from your doctor.
- Avoid carrying medication for other travellers.
- In the event of serious illness or injury it may be necessary for a patient to be evacuated out of the country.
- Ensure that there is sufficient medical insurance in place to cover such an event.
Civil unrest
- Civil unrest can lead to road closures and even curfews, which can affect your travel plans.
- Be prepared for delays and route alterations.
- Avoid demonstrations as they can turn violent.
- Large gatherings of people can be difficult to predict or control and can lead to issues such as mob violence, arson, assault and looting.
- The security forces may use excessive force to control events in some circumstances, posing an indiscriminate risk to anyone in the area.
- Even without any particular violence, large demonstrations can be at risk of poor crowd control, which can lead to crushes and stampedes.
- If demonstrations take place on a frequent basis, research the trends which tend to accompany them.
- Where do they tend to take place? Do they tend to turn violent? Do attendees target specific types of building or representative interests associated with a specific nationality, industry, political group (such as party-political offices, state buildings or foreign-owned businesses)?
- Once you have identified the sorts of risks, trends and areas of higher risk to be avoided you can start planning to minimise your exposure.
- If civil unrest appears to be particularly volatile, or set to last for an extended period, try to stock up with essential items (including food, water and medicine) in case you are stuck in your accommodation or work place or other location for an extended period of time.
- Be prepared to alter your plans at short notice and even to leave the area or even the whole country if conditions escalate. deteriorate.
- Identify evacuation routes and safe havens in case you need to get out of harms way at short notice.
- It is also advisable to identify the evacuation routes and fire safety procedures at your accommodation and/or work place in case you need to leave in a hurry.
- Beware of photography at sensitive sites or during civil disturbance.
Instability
- Bear in mind that conditions could deteriorate in the future.
- Monitor the news closely and pay attention to official advice issued by foreign governments (such as the British Foreign Office or US State Department).
- Stay in communication with other people working and/or travelling with you, as well as your colleagues, employers and/or loved ones out of the country.
- If such a deterioration takes place, note that the process could be gradual, or it could be very sudden.
- Have contingency plans in place, including evacuation routes, safe havens and alternatives if these areas suddenly become unsafe or unreachable.
- During a crisis, roads might be blocked or congested, airports could be chaotic, and borders may be sealed so it helps to have a range of potential options.
- In times of heightened tension, be prepared to leave at short notice.
- Alternatively, if the situation on the ground is hazardous, it might be preferable to stay in a ‘hold fast’ position in secure accommodation and await conditions to stabilise.
- Have adequate stocks of fuel, food, water and medication to either stay in the hold fast position, or to take with you on your journey, in case it involves lengthy delays.
- Have your valuables and other essential items close at hand and ready to take with you at short notice (for example in a ‘grab bag’).
- Ensure that you have adequate insurance in place to cover you for an evacuation if one is required.
Terrorism
- Monitor and assess the trends and tactics of any relevant terrorist organisations with the potential for targeting your location and identify potential targets.
- For particularly at-risk areas, the most effective risk mitigation advice is simply to avoid them.
- Use your judgement on the frequency of incidents taking place and decide whether or not your journey to an at-risk location is needed.
- Be vigilant in and around higher-risk areas, which could include crowded places, symbolic or sensitive political sites, or busy restaurant, nightlife or tourist spots.
- Depending on the situation and circumstances (including your own work, nationality, lifestyle and other profile aspects) you might need to enact security measures for protection in higher-risk areas.
- Be aware of your surroundings and be prepared to react at short notice in the event of an incident.
- In the event of an incident, get out of the area quickly if it is safe to do so.
- Alternatively hide and try to keep out of harm’s way.
- In most cases you should only try to help other people if it is safe for you to do so.
- Keep quiet and notify the relevant authorities, colleagues or loved ones only when you are out of danger.
Crime
- Research and familiarise yourself with your destination in advance of travel.
- Find out what the local criminal trends are and identify any potential hotspots, such as certain neighbourhoods.
- Note than crime levels can often be higher around public transport, shopping areas and crowded places.
- In higher risk areas exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
- Try not to overtly display your belongings or anything that could make you appear wealthy.
- Ask yourself if you need to show off your jewellery, watch, mobile phone or other items or equipment.
- Try to keep your wallet or cash hidden.
- It also helps to avoid appearing vulnerable in at-risk areas so try to display confidence and purpose as you move around.
- Avoid consulting a map in public as this will mark you out as both unfamiliar with the environment as well as being potentially vulnerable.
- Familiarise yourself with local maps and directions before wandering around.
- Identify routes to your accommodation and other safe havens (such as police stations, embassies, commercial areas with a police presence or quieter, safer neighbourhoods for example).
- Familiarise yourself with landmarks so you can orientate yourself and find your way out of trouble spots if you need to.
- Note that crime trends can change, and the level of risk can become higher, after dark.
- It might be advisable to avoid wandering around at night.
- Avoid dark alleys in urban areas.
- It is might also be advisable to travel in pairs or in a group.
- It may also be preferable to drive or be driven around certain areas rather than walking around in the street, even for going relatively short distances.
- In general, use your gut instincts and be prepared to avoid situations, places or people that seem suspicious, odd or wrong in some way.
Cash
- Consider obtaining specific insurance that covers the loss or theft of the amount of cash you are likely going to have to carry around with you.
- Consider the logistics of storing and carrying large amounts of cash with you.
- Try to use a reliable safe or other secure storage place for the cash, such as in your accommodation (although note that safes in accommodation might not be secure either).
- When carrying large amounts of cash be as discreet as possible.
- Avoid making it clear to other people how much cash you have on you.
Kidnap
- Make sure that your organisation and loved ones are ready to respond in the event that you are taken.
- Consider appropriate insurance arrangements.
- Otherwise, in at-risk areas keep knowledge of your plans and movements to a small circle of trusted individuals.
- Take family photos with you as this can help humanise you in the eyes of your captors, which could elicit sympathy and potentially encourage them to treat you better.
- Keep a low profile, but also consider travelling in pairs or in a group in order to appear less vulnerable, depending on the circumstances.
- Vary routes and routines so as to make it harder for any potential abductor to plan an attack against you.
- Consider undertaking hostile environment training in advance of travel.
- Consider undertaking close protection services if the local security environment requires it.
Religious or conservative attitudes
- Exercise sensitivity in societies which place a high value on perceived morality, even if it goes against personal beliefs and values.
- Research what local cultural practises, attitudes, values and laws you will need to be mindful of before travelling.
- Note that some behaviours, interactions and attire may also attract unwanted attention, cause offence or trigger a hostile response.
- Note that some subjects may be taboo so avoid discussing them with people if you think it might cause offence.
Terrain
- If travelling to areas with more challenging terrain types, bear in mind that you might need to take specific and specialised equipment and clothing.
- Some terrain types might be more hazardous at different times of year so research any seasonal variations and work out the best time for you to visit.
- You may have to alter your behaviour and consider certain types of medication, such as if you have to travel to high altitudes.
- Areas with challenging terrain are often sparsely populated and/or with underdeveloped infrastructure.
- Not only can this make it difficult for you to travel there, it may also make it difficult to get out if you need to, or for any assistance to arrive in the event that you encounter difficulties and need help or evacuation.
- As such, have backup plans in place, methods of calling for help even if local communication networks are poor and aim to be as medically self-sufficient as possible.
Weather
- If rainfall, flooding, extreme temperatures or other types of severe weather are a concern, check the local weather patterns to find out if there are times of the year where the risk is much higher.
- Consider avoiding travel to at-risk destinations during these times.
- Try to stay in good quality accommodation.
- Take appropriate clothing and footwear.
- Take appropriate protection for any sensitive equipment you wish to bring.
- Note that storms, flooding and other types of harsh weather can overload infrastructure, lead to traffic jams and power cuts.
- Flooding and heavy rainfall can also raise the risk of landslides, as well as insect- and water-borne diseases in some parts of the world.
- As such, be prepared to delay, alter or even cancel travel plans to affected or high-risk areas.
Dust/sandstorms
- Pay attention to local weather reports and stay up to date on any potential warnings of upcoming potential dust or sandstorms.
- If a dust or sandstorm is expected, consider delaying non-essential travel as low visibility can make driving hazardous. Flights can also be disrupted.
- Consider staying indoors, particularly if you have pre-existing respiratory conditions.
- Use a face mask and eyewear if going outside.
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- Access our reports
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- World travel guidance for November
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- World travel guidance for October
- Monthly Forecast, July 2017
- Corruption rates around the world
- Road Traffic Accidents
ExM April 4, 2018
Advice for Golan Heights area
The Golan, Jawlan or Ramat HaGolan is a disputed territory of around 1800 square km that borders Israel, Lebanon, Syria and Jordan. It was captured and then occupied by Israel in 1967. It is the location of the Sea of Galilee and has some beautiful agricultural land, but it is also a highly controversial, as well as strategically important wedge of land between countries that are still technically at war. Lebanon claims a 22 square kilometre part of the territory, referred to as the Shebaa Farms, which Syria has conceded as belonging to Lebanon. The area has seen clashes between the Israeli security forces and militants based in Syria.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Abu Kamal border crossing point area
Located in Deir ez-Zor, this is an official border crossing point between Syria and Iraq, with the Iraqi town of al-Qa’im lying just across the border in Anbar province. This area has been extremely hazardous in the past and has been sporadically closed according to local security and international political developments.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Yarubiyah border crossing point area
This site is an official border crossing point between Syria and Iraq, with the Iraqi town of Rabia sitting across the border. Both sides of the border are hazardous and have had a strong radical Islamist presence in the past.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Simalka border crossing point area
This border crossing point between Syria and Iraq adjoins the town of Fishkhabur (also spelt Fishkabor, Peshabor and other variations). The Iraqi side was controlled by official Kurdish security forces but is now under federal control. It is a semi-official crossing point and is open for movement, particularly refugees.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Ain Diwar border crossing point area
This is an official border crossing point between Syria and Turkey currently under Kurdish control.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Bab al-Salama border crossing point area
This border crossing point is currently being controlled by rebel groups and is deemed to be fairly hazardous. There is a refugee camp just across the border in Turkey. It’s not to be confused with Bab al-Salam, which is a district in Damascus.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Qamishli border crossing point area
This is an official border crossing point between Syria and Turkey but it is manned by Kurdish forces and is not always open. There have been incidents of violence in the vicinity in the past.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Atmeh border crossing point area
This is an unofficial border crossing point between Syria and Turkey and is under militant control. It has been targeted in terrorist attacks in the past.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Darkosh border crossing point area
This is an unofficial border crossing point between Turkey and Syria and is manned by non-government forces.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Harem border crossing point area
This is an unofficial border crossing point between Syria and Turkey and is no longer extensively used. It is possible but hazardous to cross here.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Ras al-Ain border crossing point area
This is an official border crossing point between Syria and Turkey, currently manned by Kurdish forces. It has suffered air strikes in the past and clashes between Kurdish and Sunni Islamist militia forces. Further fighting could take place in the future if Damascus or Ankara seeks to impose some sort of control over the area.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Bab al-Kasab border crossing point area
This is an official border crossing point between Syria and Turkey, currently manned by pro-government forces.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Israeli border area
This area is littered with landmines and other unexploded ordnance so extreme care is advisable if moving around the area.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Lebanese border area
The border between the two countries is largely porous. Historically, there has been a lot of informal trade, migration and smuggling between the two countries and as a result, there are many unofficial crossing points along the border.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Jarablus border crossing point area
This is an official border crossing point between Syria and Turkey. It is currently being run by pro-Turkey militia groups, although it was previously being controlled by radical Islamist groups.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Bab al-Salama border crossing point area
This is an official border crossing point between Syria and Turkey and has been used by refugees to flee the Syrian conflict.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Bab al-Hawa border crossing point area
This is a major crossing point between Syria and Turkey. The area has been controlled by radical Islamist groups in the past and is still believed to be used by such groups to smuggle weaponry, resources and people across the border. Traffic is currently being restricted by the Turkish authorities, although some aid and medical supplies are being allowed in and civilians may be allowed to cross into Turkey to reach the refugee camp at Reyhanlı.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Akçakale border crossing point area
This border crossing point, adjacent to the Syrian town of Tal al-Abyad, has been controlled by radical Islamists in the past and is thought to have been a key route for Daesh supporters to cross into the country in the past. It should be considered hazardous for foreigners.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Israeli border area
There have been some cross-border skirmishes but actually this place hasn’t seen as much violence as other parts of the country. There isn’t really any movement of people between the two countries, although the Israelis have occasionally taken in wounded civilians and treated them at a field hospital. Otherwise, there have been clashes between the government and rebels around the area.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Turkish border area
The border area is far from secure, with various clashes between different groups, as well as air strikes by foreign powers (such as Russia and Turkey) on suspected militant sites around the area and shelling which has occasionally hit sites on the Turkish side. Foreigners have been killed and abducted in this area.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Kurdish Region area
The predominantly Kurdish region of north-eastern Syria has on occasion been one of the more stable parts of the country but it is not secure. Terrorist attacks have occurred here in the past, including mass-casualty incidents. There have been clashes between Kurdish militant units and radical Islamist organisations.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Raqqa area
Also spelt ar-Raqqah, al-Raqqa, Raqa and Raqqah, this city has been controlled by rebels and even Daesh and has been devastated by fighting. The situation is calmer now but it has not been secured by government forces and is still considered highly hazardous.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Deir ez-Zor area
This is an unusual town, close to the Iraqi border. It gets transliterated into English under various spellings, such as Deir az-Zour, Deir Ezzor, Deir Al-Zor, Deir-al-Zour, Dayr Al-Zawr, Der Ezzor, Deir Azzor and Deirazzor. It has been controlled by rebel forces and even Daesh fighters in the past but is now largely under the control of the government. Despite suffering bombardment and other violence from Daesh over several years, which forced many residents to flee, the situation appears to have stabilised somewhat in recent months and refugees are slowly starting to return to the town.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Deraa area
This was one of the flashpoint centres at the start of the civil war with one of the earliest uprisings and subsequent clampdowns on unrest by the authorities. The area suffered heavy shelling and air raids, as well as offensives by pro-government militia groups, which left numerous civilians dead. Nonetheless, rebel groups are still active in the area and further violence is likely.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Al-Tanf border crossing point area
This is an official crossing point between Syria and Iraq, with the Iraqi town of al-Waleed lying across the border in the Rutbah district of Anbar province. The area is pretty hostile and the crossing is often closed.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Masnaa border crossing point area
At the time of writing, this border crossing is open to movement in both directions.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Hama area
This city has suffered extensive destruction and depopulation, particularly in the Mesha Alarbeen district, which was a centre of anti-government protests during the earlier years of the civil war.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Baba Amr area
This is a district of Homs which suffered hugely during the government siege of the area, with many buildings completely destroyed. It remains very hazardous.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Homs area
This city has been absolutely devastated by the civil war and is now mostly under the control of the government, with pockets of resistance here and there. It was one of the early flashpoints of anti-government violence and suffered greatly as a result, with a heavy besiegement. Many residents of the city have since fled and with little signs of reconstruction or stability it could be years before the population begins to return again.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Masnaa border crossing point area
This is an official border crossing point between Syria and Lebanon. It is under government control and is usually one of the more stable crossing points in the country.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Talkalakh border crossing point area
This is a border crossing point between northern Lebanon and Homs in Syria. It is unofficial but under the control of the Syrian government and still used for certain crossings.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Tartous border crossing point area
This is an official border crossing point between Tartous in Syria and Arida in Lebanon. It is under government control.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Jusiyah border crossing point area
This is an official border crossing point between the Syrian town of Jusiyah and the Lebanese town of Qaa. It is reportedly open and under official government control.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Nasib border crossing point area
This is a large border crossing point between Syria and Jordan and is under government control on the Syrian side, although there is restricted access at present.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Countrywide area
Healthcare facilities are extremely limited in the country, even in the biggest cities. They can be non-existent elsewhere, particularly cities which have suffered heavy violence. There is a shortage of equipment, supplies and staff. Pharmacies are also struggling and many have closed or have limited supplies of medications as well. Blood transfusions cannot be relied upon.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Idlib province area
Turkey currently has significant control over parts of Idlib, which it likely views as a buffer area between the Syrian civil war and the Turkish border. However, there are numerous rebel groups present in the area as well as the Syrian government (and its allies) might be tempted to increase their offensive on the area to eradicate or at least weaken these groups. As a result, there is a significant risk of the situation here escalating once again in the future.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Aleppo area
The city has seen extensive violence in recent years, particularly in the Salah ad-Din and Jadeidat Artous districts in the south and southwest of the city, which have changed sides on numerous occasions. These two areas are strategically important for getting supplies and troops to the city. The Al-Missar area of the city has been very badly damaged by air strikes over recent years. Towns to the north of the city have also suffered heavy shelling and other forms of indirect fire (air-to-surface missiles). Note also that foreign journalists have been killed and abducted in the city in the past.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Lebanese border area
There are two official border crossing points between Lebanon and Syria, one at Arida, on the coastal highway from Tartus to Tripoli, and at Masnaa, the main waypoint between Damascus and Beirut, which is by far the busiest. There have been occasional incidents of violence around these points, which have also sporadically been closed by the fighting. The Syrian Army has consolidated its control and is backed by pro-government forces, such as Hezbollah on both sides of the border.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Countrywide area
The climate varies throughout Syria, with a Mediterranean coast and more arid conditions in the interior. There can be heavy rainfall in the winter and the temperature can drop, especially in the interior. It can be very hot and dry in the summer, with a risk of heat stroke and dehydration. Dust storms are a risk as well.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Al-Midan area
This is a central focal point of Damascus. It has seen terrorist attacks in the past and has a fairly visible security presence, including in the form of pro-government militias.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Douma area
Located about 6 miles northeast of Damascus, in the area known as ‘Ghouta’ this location has seen extremely heavy fighting over recent years. The area is devastated and highly hazardous.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Ghouta area
This is an eastern suburb of Damascus well-known for the heavy violence and siege which has affected large parts of the area. There are strong pro-rebel sympathies here but many residents have been forced out by the government offensive. This offensive will likely continue so long as rebel fighters remain in the area.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Kafr Sousa area
Also spelt Kafar Souseh, this is a district in the southwest of Damascus. It’s a fairly old but affluent area and houses a couple of high profile government buildings. It’s pretty well patrolled but it’s seen demonstrations turn violent in the past and has suffered one or two terrorist attacks.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Dar’a border crossing point area
This is an official border crossing point between the Syrian town of Dar’a (Daraa) and the Jordanian town of Ramtha. Control has been contested violently by different groups in recent years while it has also seen large scale refugee movements. The Jordanian side of the border is very heavily guarded.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Damascus International Airport (DAM) area
This is the biggest airport in the country, located around 18 miles from Damascus city centre. It is relatively small and has very limited facilities. You should be able to obtain local currency in the building. Security is also relatively tight, although it is not completely airtight so take care in the building and try not to spend too much time there if you can.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Countrywide area
Congestion used to be a big problem in cities countrywide but now it is only really an issue in cities less affected by the conflict, such as downtown Damascus. Otherwise, driving conditions can be hazardous with poor roads and aggressive driving habits by other road users. Roads can also be closed at short notice for security reasons, such as in the event of protests. Expect plentiful checkpoints in both government- and rebel-controlled areas.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Rukneddine area
Also spelt Rukn Eldin or Rukn al-Din, this is a predominantly Kurdish district in the north of Damascus. The area has not seen particularly heavy fighting but there have been clashes with Kurds and the security forces on occasion, such as in the event that the authorities have tried to clamp down on public Kurdish cultural or political events in the area. There have also been one or two terrorist attacks in the area.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Al-Salihiyah area
Also spelt Salihiyah, Salhiyah, Salheyah, this is a fairly sensitive district of Damascus, containing the parliament building. While it hasn’t seen the extensive fighting witnessed in other parts of the city and its surroundings, it has experienced some terrorist attacks. Security can also be tight, leading to restrictions on movement, especially around high-profile government buildings.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Saroujah area
Also spelt Sarouja, this is an old district in Damascus. It has seen some fighting and terrorist attacks during the civil war, although it is not the worst part of the city.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Countrywide area
Although they are much less common now amid the conflict, minibuses are still a potential way to get around if you are travelling low profile and on a budget. They are known locally as ‘servees’ and can carry up to 10 people at a time. They are quite good for short journeys, particularly in areas which are very clearly controlled by one side or another (such as government controlled areas or Kurdish controlled areas). Otherwise they are probably best avoided by foreigners.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Damascus International Airport (DAM) area
There are usually government taxis just outside the building which you can take into town. Otherwise, unapproved taxis aren’t allowed near the airport for security reasons. They are more expensive than normal taxis but if you haven’t got any beef with the government (or more likely, the other way around) they are probably the safest way to get into town.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Latakia International Airport (LTK) area
The airport is located around 16 miles from Latakia. It is relatively safe, being in a government-controlled area. You can usually fly to other destinations in the region from here. Facilities are very limited in the building.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Damascus area
Taxis are fairly widely available and are coloured yellow for easy identification. If you are sticking to government-controlled areas they are usually fairly safe. All licensed ones will have a meter, so make sure it’s on and running when you take a taxi anywhere.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Countrywide area
The security forces have been known to confiscate phones from foreigners visiting the country. It is advisable to sanitise your phone before travel, removing any potentially suspicious contacts, messages, photographs etc. Consider your social media profile as well in case the security forces investigate you and find anything that could make you seem suspicious in their eyes.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Al-Shagour area
This is an old neighbourhood of Damascus which tends to lean towards government support, although there are rebel supporters here too and there has been sporadic fighting, as well as terrorist attacks during the civil war.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Yarmouk Camp area
Located around 5 miles from Damascus city centre, this unofficial refugee camp, set up in 1957, is populated predominantly with Palestinians. The area saw heavy fighting during the civil war, with various factions battling for control. Many of the residents were driven out as a result. The area remains very hazardous and damaged, with further fighting a definite possibility.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Qanawat area
This is a central district of Damascus, containing several high profile buildings, including ministries, police headquarters, the University of Damascus campus as well as some notable historical sites.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Countrywide area
Internet usage is widely monitored so take care with the sites that you visit and the emails you send.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Dummar area
This is a more upmarket part of Damascus and seen as a relatively quiet part of the city over recent years. It’s not totally immune to violence but it’s a lot safer than many of the other districts.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Barzeh area
Also spelt Berzé, this is a district in northern Damascus with a predominantly Sunni population and a general leaning towards the rebels. Different truces have been in place here but fighting has taken place nonetheless. Radical Islamist groups have had a presence here in the past, and while mostly driven out, they have nonetheless conducted retaliatory terrorist attacks in the district as well.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Kafr Batna area
Also spelt Kfar Batna and Kafar Batna, this is a district in Damascus. Some of the residents are rebel supporters and the area has been occupied by both rebel forces and the military in the past, with clashes between the two leading to damage and casualties.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Countrywide area
It is very difficult to obtain currency outside the country and most travellers get it on arrival, such as at the airport. Otherwise, there have been a lot of restrictions placed on financial transactions in the country due to the economic situation resulting from the conflict.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Ain Tarma area
Also spelt Ein Tarma, Ayn Tarma or Ain Terma, this is a district of Damascus located in the eastern Ghouta area. It has suffered fighting between rebel and government forces in recent years and can be very hazardous.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Zamalka area
This is a suburb of Damascus which has suffered military operations against its residents in the past, including an alleged chemical attack.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Old Damascus area
This is usually a calmer part of the capital so can be viewed as a temporary safe haven if the situation escalates in other parts of the city. Otherwise, the airport is usually fairly well secured and can make a good safe haven until you can either return to the city or get a flight out of the country.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Countrywide area
Culturally, the country is predominantly Arab with standard Middle Eastern cultural practises, so it’s advisable to dress appropriately, covering excess skin. A woman may not want to shake hands with a man so a bow of the head with your right hand on your chest may be a more appropriate method of greeting/introduction than a handshake in certain circumstances. Men greeting other men, on the other hand, may exchange kisses on the cheek while shaking hands.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Qaboun area
Also spelt Qabun, al-Kaboun, al-Qaboun or al-Qaboon, this is a predominantly Sunni district of Damascus with a strong rebel presence for years. It has suffered very heavy government offensives, with many buildings destroyed and many residents forced to flee.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Jobar area
Also spelt Jawbar, Jober or Joubar, this district of Damascus is situated to the northeast of the old city and has seen very fierce fighting in recent years. The area housed Sunni rebel groups so the government used a heavy military campaign to try to drive them out, particularly in 2017. Infrastructure has been very badly damaged. Sporadic fighting still takes place while there’s also a lot of unexploded ordnance in the area.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Sayyidah Zaynab area
Also spelt Set Zaynab, Saida Zainab, is a major shrine town south of Damascus. It is very significant in the Shi’ite world. Unfortunately over recent years the area has seen several terrorist attacks by radical Sunni groups looks to antagonise the Shi’ite community. The area has also suffered heavy shelling and sniper fire, forcing local residents to flee.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Asali area
This is a small district in the Qadam area, built around a shrine. It has seen quite heavy fighting in recent years with lots of civilians kills.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Hamouriyah area
Also spelt Hamoryah, Hamouria, Hammurah or Hammuriya, this is a district located about 7 miles east of Damascus in the in troubled eastern Ghouta area. It has seen heavy fighting.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Qadam area
This is a district in the south of the capital, just west of the Yarmouk camp. It has seen quite serious fighting over recent years. Infrastructure has been badly damaged and conditions could flare up again in the future.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Hajar al-Aswad area
This is a southern district of Damascus where heavy fighting has taken place in recent years. Local residents are thought to have sympathies towards the rebels, which is why the government has taken action against the area. It is currently considered to be very hazardous.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Damascus area
The capital is one of the more stable parts of the country although it still isn’t ‘safe’. Some of the outlying districts where rebels are active are subject to ongoing military campaigns such as air and artillery strikes, which have taken a huge toll. These areas are pretty much out of bounds to the average foreigner. In the more secure parts of the city, there are still lots of restrictions in place on the roads, particularly around key assets such as the presidential palace and certain government buildings. Expect plenty of roadblocks and checkpoints, especially on major roads and highways around the city. Further, short-term restrictions may also be implemented at short notice. Terrorist attacks are an ongoing concern, with high profile government and security force assets at risk, although crowds of civilians are also a potential target as well.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Countrywide area
Crime wasn’t really a problem before the conflict, although there were occasional things like petty theft (including passport and wallet theft) as well as occasional harassment of women. Shopping areas in downtown parts of larger cities were most at risk, particularly places like Damascus University and al-Hamra street in Damascus. These risks have not gone away. Actually, the breakdown in the economy has raised the risk of opportunistic crime.
ExM April 2, 2018
Advice for Countrywide area
There has been a major rise in kidnapping incidents in the country since the conflict began, by both government forces as well as the various militia groups scattered around the country, who hope to use their victims to raise finance and/or bargain for the release of prisoners or other concessions. Syrians of all sects are at risk, while foreign nationals are also an extremely attractive target to different groups. NGOs and journalists are just as much at risk as anybody else, even if you think you’re helping Syria it wouldn’t stop one group or another viewing you as an attractive target.
Anonymous April 2, 2018
Advice for Countrywide area
Gender equality levels can be poor, especially in rural areas.
TravelRiskMonitor February 20, 2018
Alert for Eastern Ghouta area
Violence has escalated over the past 24 hours with dozens killed by government bombings. Evidently, the area remains extremely hazardous, indeed one of the most dangerous places in the world.
TravelRiskMonitor February 19, 2018
Alert for Qamishli area
A bomb killed five people and injured seven more on 18th February in the Hay al-Gharbi district of Qamishli. The target of the bomb is not currently known but the incident may have been aimed at discrediting the Kurdish YPG militia forces who control the area. The last bombing in the city was in September.
TravelRiskMonitor January 29, 2018
Alert for Manbij area
The US does not intent to remove troops stations near Manbij town despite Turkish threats that they will launch military operations in the area to tackle Kurdish militias. This raises the risk of confrontation between Turkish and US troops, although Turkey may pull back at the last minute fearing an international incident.
TravelRiskMonitor January 29, 2018
Alert for Afrin area
Turkish airstrikes and shelling continue in Afrin. Over 50 people are reported to have been killed in fighting in the area over the past two weeks, including civilians, Turkish troops and Kurdish militants, although the figures are difficult to verify. The violence is expected to continue with Turkey looking to control and pacify the enclave.
TravelRiskMonitor January 28, 2018
Alert for Eastern Ghouta area
Despite the ceasefire, observers reported that military shelling continued overnight around Eastern Ghouta (including in Douma), killing at least eight people. The ongoing siege of the area has created dire conditions for local residents and it currently remains one of the most hazardous places in the world.
TravelRiskMonitor January 27, 2018
Alert for Eastern Ghouta area
A Russian-brokered ceasefire is underway in Eastern Ghouta, the last rebel-held neighbourhood of Damascus. This will allow for crucial aid to the reach the besieged area. However, not all rebel groups in the area agreed to the ceasefire and conditions may descend into violence again in the coming days.
TravelRiskMonitor January 24, 2018
Alert for Old Damascus area
Syrian rebels based in Eastern Ghouta fired mortars at Damascus, hitting the mostly Christian neighbourhood of Bab Touma on 22nd January, killing nine civilians and injuring over 20 more people. Shelling has increased over recent months and more incidents are to be expected in the city.
TravelRiskMonitor January 23, 2018
Alert for Afrin area
The Turkish military offensive against Kurdish militants has killed and injured a number of civilians in the area over recent days. The situation could worsen further, although the international community appears to be showing few signs of intervention.
Kusay79 January 10, 2018
Advice for Countrywide area
You can use taxis in some parts of Damascus maybe but even then, it’s best to use a private firm or a private driver. Check with your accommodation or local contacts for advice.
WeatherGeek January 7, 2018
Advice for Countrywide area
Weather conditions can become extremely hot from May to October in Syria, making it very difficult to work or even move around outside during the daytime, especially around midday. It is very important to keep hydrated and avoid excessive exposure to the sun during this time.
TravelRiskMonitor December 14, 2017
Advice for Damascus area
Daesh fighters are still present in some parts of the city, demonstrated by recent clashes between the group and the army in Tadamun district. The Yarmouk and al-Hajar al-Aswad parts of the city are deemed to still have a Daesh presence. More violence by the group is to be expected.
TravelRiskMonitor December 10, 2017
Advice for Countrywide area
Daesh is no longer thought to be controlling any territory in Syria following long-standing operations against the group. Nonetheless, it has left behind extensive unexploded ordnance (such as bombs) in towns and cities it held under its control, while individuals and cells belonging to the group are likely still able to conduct sporadic terrorist attacks in different parts of the country.
TheAllSeeingAye November 21, 2017
Advice for Idlib province area
The Syrian Kurdish YPG militia fired mortars at the Turkish military observation post in the Darat Izza area of Idlib province on 20th November. No-one was injured in the attack but more clashes between the two sides should be expected around the border.
TheAllSeeingAye November 9, 2017
Advice for Albu Kamal area
Pro government forces, supported by Hezbollah and other pro-Iranian Shi’a militias report that they have secured Albu Kamal from Daesh. There is still sporadic fighting ongoing in the town and other villages in the area remain under Daesh control but the capture of the town marks another major loss for Daesh. Cleanup operations will continue over the coming days.
TheAllSeeingAye November 3, 2017
Advice for Deir ez-Zor governorate area
The fall of Deir ez-Zor from Daesh to government control does not mean an end of hostilities in the city, so expect more sporadic violence, but it still marks a major strategic loss for the terrorist group. Nonetheless, the capture is a major boost for President Assad and will help him consolidate control in the country. The army is also likely to focus next on Albu Kamal (also called Abu Kamal) which also lies in the province, so expect fighting to increase there in the coming weeks.
TheAllSeeingAye November 3, 2017
Advice for Deir ez-Zor area
Government forces report that they have taken full control of the city from Daesh, but there are still pockets of resistance. There will still be sporadic clashes, unexploded ordnance and an overall humanitarian crisis in the city.
TheAllSeeingAye October 19, 2017
Advice for Idlib province area
Following the re-opening of the Bab al-Hawa border crossing point into Turkey to let in supplies, the overall Turkish presence is likely to increase in Idlib province over the coming months.
TheAllSeeingAye October 19, 2017
Advice for Bab al-Hawa area
The Bab al-Hawa bordering crossing point in Idlib province has apparently been re-opened by the Turkish government to allow construction and food supplies into the area. The crossing was closed in August because of nearby fighting. Apparently civilians are still not allowed to cross over but this may change in the future.
TheAllSeeingAye October 18, 2017
Advice for Deir ez-Zor area
After the near-collapse of Daesh control in Raqqah, expect anti-Daesh fighting to shift focus to Deir ez-Zor on the Iraqi border.
TheAllSeeingAye October 18, 2017
Advice for Raqqah area
US-backed militias are reportedly close to liberating the Daesh capital city of Raqqah. Pockets of terrorist fighters are still present in the city but most of the districts are now thought to be in militia-member hands. Expect further terrorist attacks in the longer-term but this is a major blow to Daesh.
TheAllSeeingAye October 13, 2017
News for Damascus area
Suicide bombers killed two people near al-Midan police station in central Damascus. Daesh conducted a similar attack earlier in the month in the same area which killed a lot more people. In general, there will remain a high risk of further terrorist attacks in the city, with government and security force installations and personnel set to remain the most attractive target, although general crowds of civilians are also at risk.
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-mideast-crisis-syria-attack/suicide-bombers-attack-damascus-police-center-syrian-state-media-idUSKBN1CG1QI
TheAllSeeingAye October 9, 2017
News for Idlib province area
The Turkish military has confirmed that it has sent ground troops across the border into Idlib province for reconnaissance purposes in its fight against Islamist organisation Tahrir al-Sham, but it is also suspected that the operation is aimed at targeting the Kurdish-controlled autonomous district of Afrin.
http://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/turkish-soldiers-have-crossed-border-into-syrias-idlib-military-120553
EyeInTheSkye August 11, 2017
Advice for Suwayda Province area
The Syrian Army has reportedly taken back control of a large stretch of the border with Jordan in its fight against rebels. It’s likely that the army will continue to consolidate its control over the area in the coming months.
EyeInTheSkye June 19, 2017
News for Countrywide area
The shooting down of a Syrian plane by US forces south of Taqbah marks an escalation in the conflict with more incidents to be expected, particularly if Russia does not mediate in the situation. http://edition.cnn.com/2017/06/18/middleeast/syrian-warplane-shot-down-coalition/index.html
EyeInTheSkye June 14, 2017
Advice for Countrywide area
The British FCO advises against ALL travel to Syria.
AdminSheena June 11, 2017
News for Countrywide area
Highly regarded article outlining what strategic challenges lie ahead in Syria: https://nyti.ms/2t6Xb3a
Anonymous June 7, 2017
Advice for Countrywide area
In many areas foreigners are at risk of being targeted with things like kidnapping, shooting, theft and other forms of violence. Make sure you’re staying in secure and property protected accommodation. Keep a low profile. Avoid busy crowded areas. If you’re travelling somewhere make sure that someone you trust knows your itinerary and can raise the alarm if you don’t turn up at your destination on time. It’s best to undergo hostile regions training before you travel. Consider specialist insurance cover too (ie for kidnap).
AdminSheena May 29, 2017
Advice for Countrywide area
Bear in mind that parts of the country are currently pretty much no-go for foreigners.
Modest clothing that covers arms and legs is advised, especially for women; this is particularly important in rural areas or at religious facilities and is likely to become more important as religiosity levels are rising in several parts of the country
The photography of military personnel and facilities as well as official buildings and personnel is strongly inadvisable; seek permission before photographing local people.
Travellers should carry their passport or at least a photocopy of the relevant pages from the document at all times.