Syria’s Ministry of Tourism signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) in July 2026 with three Saudi technology companies—Tamkeen, Cipher, and Hawaz—to establish an integrated digital tourism ecosystem aimed at accelerating the sector’s digital transformation.
Development of Unified Digital Platforms and Cybersecurity Enhancements
The partnership focuses on creating a unified digital platform for tourism services and bookings, alongside a national digital tourism portal that will consolidate information on destinations, attractions, and events throughout Syria. The agreement also prioritizes enhancing cybersecurity measures, implementing comprehensive data governance frameworks, and deploying advanced systems for data collection and analytics to support policy-making and long-term planning.
Official Context and Strategic Importance of Digital Transformation
The MoU was signed in Damascus in
the presence of H.E. Mazen Al-Salhani, Syria’s Minister of Tourism, representatives from the Saudi firms, members of the Syrian-Saudi Business Council, and senior ministry officials. Al-Salhani characterized digital transformation as a strategic pillar essential for rebuilding a competitive, resilient, and future-ready tourism sector. He emphasized the ministry’s goal to lead digital innovation in tourism through robust data governance, cybersecurity, and an integrated digital framework.
Tourism Sector Growth in First Half of 2026
The launch of the digital ecosystem coincides with a dramatic increase in tourism arrivals. Syria recorded 3.52 million visitors in the first six months of 2026, up 111% from 1.67 million in the same period of
2025. International tourist arrivals surged by 448%, while arrivals from Arab countries increased by 107%, figures published by the Syrian Ministry of Tourism show.
Alignment with National Digital Strategy and Saudi Expertise
The initiative aligns with Syria’s broader national digital transformation agenda, aimed at modernizing public services and expanding e-government capabilities. The three Saudi technology firms bring expertise consistent with Saudi Vision 2030 in digital governance, institutional modernization, and cybersecurity, supporting Syria’s ambition to apply international best practices across the tourism sector.
Destination Marketing and Capacity Building
Beyond platform development, the partnership includes destination marketing efforts targeting regional and international markets. It also encompasses capacity-building programs designed to equip Syrian tourism professionals with
skills necessary for operating within a digitally advanced tourism economy.
