The inaugural Syria Travel Show (STS) 2026 will take place from 28 to 30 September 2026 at Al Moutanbi Hall, Dama Rose Hotel in Damascus. Organised by Mangusteen Events and Exhibitions and SO Media under the patronage of the Syrian Ministry of Tourism, the event aims to establish a global platform to explore the commercial potential of Syria’s travel, tourism, and hospitality sectors.
Event Scale and Participation
More than 30 exhibitors and over 20 industry speakers are expected to participate in STS 2026, drawing upwards of 5,000 attendees over the three-day event. The show combines a trade exhibition, keynote presentations, panel discussions, cultural showcases,
professional networking, and business-to-business matchmaking to facilitate industry engagement.
Industry Opportunities and Business Categories
STS 2026 will engage a wide array of stakeholders, including tourism authorities, hotel operators, developers, airlines, travel agencies, technology providers, franchise owners, and cultural institutions. The event offers a platform for investors and developers to discuss hotel and resort projects, tourism real estate, infrastructure, and public-private partnerships. Hospitality groups can explore management agreements and market entry, while tour operators and travel agencies have opportunities to develop inbound tourism products ranging from cultural and heritage to medical and adventure tourism. Airlines, online travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology firms can establish
connections essential for reintegrating Syria into the international tourism network.
Visitor Growth Data Reflecting Market Recovery
Visitor arrivals in Syria reached 3.52 million in the first half of 2026, more than doubling compared to the same period in 2025. International arrivals surged 448%, Arab visitor arrivals increased by 107%, and Syrian expatriate arrivals rose by 75% during this period. These figures indicate strengthened regional and international confidence in Syria’s tourism sector amidst its revival phase.
Official Statements from Syrian Ministry of Tourism
H.E. Mazen Al-Salhani, Syria’s Minister of Tourism, stated that the tourism sector is entering a new phase characterized by rising visitor demand and increased investor confidence. He said, “Our ambition is
to build a tourism-led economy by empowering the private sector, attracting responsible investment and developing world-class tourism experiences that showcase Syria’s unique cultural and natural assets.” The Minister emphasized the event’s role in unlocking the sector’s full potential and shaping future growth.
Strategic Context and Objectives
STS 2026 is part of a broader strategy led by the Syrian Ministry of Tourism to support sustainable sector growth, improve service quality, and position Syria as a competitive destination in the region. The event aims to accelerate dialogue, facilitate knowledge exchange, and create partnerships that convert tourism potential into investable projects and sustained economic activity.
Exhibition Features and Registration
The exhibition
will feature Syrian destinations, hospitality brands, travel services, tourism products, and investment opportunities. Conference topics include policy and investment, hospitality and aviation, destination marketing, inbound tourism, travel technology, entrepreneurship, talent development, and regional cooperation. Registration is open to trade visitors, investors, buyers, operators, and tourism professionals. Exhibition and sponsorship opportunities are available for Syrian, regional, and international organizations. Details are accessible at www.syriatravelshow.com.
