Syria’s Ministry of Tourism signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) in July 2026 with three Saudi technology companies: Tamkeen, Cipher, and Hawaz. The partnership aims to accelerate the digital transformation of Syria’s tourism sector by creating a fully integrated digital ecosystem to improve visitor services and institutional efficiency.
Digital Ecosystem to Enhance Services, Cybersecurity, and Data Analytics
The agreement includes the development of a unified digital platform for tourism services and bookings, complemented by a national portal offering comprehensive information on Syria’s destinations, attractions, and events. Strengthening cybersecurity measures and implementing robust data governance frameworks form key components of the deal. Additionally, advanced data collection and analytics systems
will support evidence-based policy decisions and long-term planning for the tourism sector.
Signing Ceremony in Damascus and Official Ministerial Statements
The MoU was signed in Damascus with the presence of H.E. Mazen Al-Salhani, Syria’s Minister of Tourism, representatives from Tamkeen, Cipher, and Hawaz, members of the Syrian-Saudi Business Council, and senior ministry officials. Minister Al-Salhani emphasized that digital transformation is a strategic pillar for rebuilding a competitive and resilient tourism industry. He stated the ministry’s aim to lead the tourism digital transformation by establishing an integrated ecosystem powered by trustworthy data, strong governance, and cybersecurity.
Tourism Surge in 2026 Spurs Digital Focus
Syria experienced a tourism boom in the first half of 2026, welcoming 3.52
million visitors, a 111% increase compared to the same period in 2025. International visitor arrivals soared by 448%, while arrivals from Arab countries rose 107%, according to Syria’s Ministry of Tourism. This growth in tourism demand and return of Syrian expatriates prompted the ministry to prioritize digital infrastructure improvements to enhance service delivery and competitiveness.
Alignment with Syria’s National Digital Agenda and Saudi Expertise
The collaboration is aligned with Syria’s broader digital transformation agenda for government institutions. The Saudi partners bring experience from initiatives related to Saudi Vision 2030, focusing on digital governance, service design, and operational excellence. This partnership marks a sector-specific milestone in embedding digital capabilities across
the tourism value chain, from government services to visitor engagement and investment facilitation.
Marketing and Capacity Building to Support Tourism Modernization
The program also includes destination marketing initiatives targeting both regional and international markets. Specialized capacity-building programs will train tourism professionals to operate effectively in a digital tourism economy, further enhancing Syria’s tourism sector competitiveness and modernization efforts.
