Syria: Saudi Arabia boosts air transport with major investment

In a strategic move to revitalize Syria's transport sector, Saudi Arabia has announced a colossal $2 billion investment. This ambitious project focuses on modernizing Aleppo's airport infrastructure and launching a new low-cost airline, marking a significant step towards the country's reintegration on the regional and international aviation scene.

Modernizing Aleppo's airports: a strategic hub

At the heart of this Saudi investment is the transformation of Aleppo International Airport into a veritable air hub for northern Syria. The funds allocated will be used to rehabilitate and expand the infrastructure, eventually increasing its capacity to 12 million passengers a year. This upgrade to international standards is essential to re-establish civil and commercial links, and to stimulate economic activity in a region severely tested by years of conflict.

The Saudi Minister of Investment, Khalid al-Falih, emphasized that the work was aimed at «boosting air traffic, promoting trade and supporting the economic recovery of northern Syria». The project is part of a wider multi-billion-dollar program covering various sectors, demonstrating Saudi commitment to Syrian reconstruction.

Launch of «Flynas Syria»: a new low-cost era

Alongside infrastructure upgrades, a joint agreement between Damascus and Riyadh will see the creation of a new Syrian-Saudi airline positioned in the low-cost segment. Provisionally named «Flynas Syria», this joint venture will be owned 51% by the Syrian side and 49% by the Saudi side, with the Saudi low-cost carrier Flynas as a key partner.

The launch of operations is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026, with a network covering the Middle East, Africa and Europe. The aim of the new airline is to offer affordable air links, facilitating Syria's reconnection with its diaspora and major regional markets. This initiative is seen as an essential lever for redrawing the national air transport map after a long period of isolation.

Impact on transport and tourism

This Saudi investment goes beyond air transport. It is backed up by complementary telecommunications projects worth around $1 billion, designed to improve digital connectivity and support the transport and tourism ecosystem. Analysts see this move as part of Saudi Arabia's strategy of regional influence, seeking to position itself as a central player in the reconstruction and reintegration of Syria.

Saudi Arabia, with this strong economic and political gesture, confirms its willingness to accompany Syria in its recovery, marking a new chapter for the country's aviation sector. The success of this project could have significant positive repercussions on the economy and tourism, opening up new prospects for the region.