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Syria and Lebanon discuss tourism cooperation at Damascus travel forum
The Syrian Travel 2026 forum concluded in Damascus, focusing on revitalizing the tourism sector through regional cooperation and digital innovation. Syrian Tourism Minister Mazen al-Salhani and Lebanese Tourism Minister Laura Lahoud met to discuss enhancing tourism and investment ties between Syria and Lebanon, with potential expansion to include Jordan.
Key discussions centered on unifying border procedures, facilitating the movement of tourist groups, and addressing traveler fees. Minister Lahoud noted that Syria’s 2025 investment law amendments could provide clearer paths for Lebanese and Syrian investors regarding licensing and contracts. The forum highlighted Lebanon’s expertise in hospitality management as a potential asset for Syria’s hotel and restaurant development.
The event also emphasized the role of digital platforms in tourism. Companies like Syria Booking reported building a significant hotel inventory of approximately 200 hotels to facilitate electronic bookings. Additionally, the forum featured sessions on cultural heritage protection, aviation connectivity, and startup solutions in travel technology and artificial intelligence.
Entities
Damask Rose Hotel · Laura Lahoud · Lebanese Ministry of Tourism · Mazen Al-Salhani · Syrian Ministry of Tourism
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Lebanese Tourism Minister Laura Lahoud identified opportunities for partnership between Lebanese and Syrian investors and operators. dailynewslb.com · www.sookeh.com · sana.sy
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Syrian Ministry of Tourism is working to facilitate tourism between Levant countries and remove barriers to create safe tourist routes. www.sookeh.com · sana.sy
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Syrian Travel 2026 forum attracted over 4,000 specialized visitors. www.sookeh.com · sana.sy
- [● 3 SOURCES] Syria introduced amendments to its investment law in 2025 to clarify licensing and contracts. dailynewslb.com · www.sookeh.com · sana.sy