العربية Get the app

Practical guide

Money, SIM cards, getting around, etiquette and emergencies.

The new currency

Since 1 Jan 2026 two zeros have been dropped: 100 old pounds = 1 new pound. Old notes stopped being legal tender on 31 July 2026, but many shops still quote prices in old-pound figures, so always ask.

  • Conversion100 old pounds = 1 new pound
  • ExamplePeople call the new 500 note “50 thousand”, i.e. 50,000 old pounds.
  • The new notes10, 25, 50, 100, 200 and 500 pounds.
  • Always askIf a price sounds odd, ask: “new or old?”
  • Exchange rateThe app's conversion rates come from the Central Bank of Syria's official bulletin; licensed exchange offices may pay more.
  • Old notesYou can no longer pay with them. They can only be exchanged through the Central Bank's app by appointment, paid into a bank account.
  • Source: SANAThe new-currency decree
  • Source: Central Bank of SyriaExchange-rate bulletin

Entry & visas

Most nationalities need a visa, with fees in US dollars that depend on nationality (Foreign Ministry Decision 128 of 2025). The rules keep changing, so check with a Syrian embassy or your airline before you travel.

  • PassportMake sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your departure date.
  • SyriansSyrians enter without a visa; an ID card or passport is accepted even if expired.
  • No feeCitizens of Lebanon and Jordan pay no visa fee.
  • Israeli stampsIf your passport shows travel to Israel you may be refused entry.
  • Staying over two weeksNon-Arab visitors staying more than 14 days must register with Immigration and Passports before day 15.
  • Source: UK governmentSyria entry requirements

SIM & internet

Syriatel and MTN. Bring your passport with its entry stamp or visa; the SIM is activated the same day at their service centres. Download your maps before heading out.

  • MTN is becoming ZainZain won the licence that replaces MTN Syria; the “Zain Syria” brand is expected to launch in the first quarter of 2027, with subscribers moved over without interruption.
  • Before heading outCoverage weakens outside cities, so keep your saved places and maps on your phone.

Getting around

Shared minibuses (servees) are the cheapest way between neighbourhoods. Taxis are everywhere — agree on the fare before you get in — and ride-hailing apps operate in Damascus.

  • Between citiesCoaches between the big cities are comfortable and cheap; book at the station or in a booking app a day ahead in busy seasons.
  • FlightsDamascus and Aleppo international airports both have international flights.
  • Small changeKeep small notes for minibuses and taxis — change is scarce.

Money & payments

Cash is king. Since late August 2026 foreign Visa and Mastercard cards are accepted at some hotels and restaurants, but not everywhere. Some places accept US dollars; look for the “Accepts USD” tag.

  • ExchangeChange money only at exchange offices licensed by the Central Bank, and keep the receipt.
  • Site ticketsEntry prices in the app are the 2026 rates for foreign visitors; Syrians pay much less. Pay in pounds at the gate.

Etiquette

Dress modestly at religious sites. At the Umayyad Mosque women visitors are given a robe at the entrance.

  • ClothingAt mosques, churches and monasteries cover shoulders and knees; women cover their hair in mosques.
  • ShoesTake your shoes off before entering a mosque; there is a place to leave them.
  • Prayer timesAvoid sightseeing during prayers, especially Friday noon.
  • PhotosAsk before photographing people, and keep your voice low inside religious sites.
  • At the beachPublic beaches require full-coverage swimwear; regular swimwear is allowed at hotels of four stars and above and on private beaches (Ministry of Tourism decision, June 2025).
  • RamadanDuring Ramadan, don't eat, drink or smoke in public between dawn and sunset.

Emergency numbers

Free to call from any phone.