Syria’s national airline has resumed regular services to Saudi Arabia after a 12-year suspension, with the first flight arriving in Riyadh. This move, announced by Syrian Airlines and confirmed by Syria’s ambassador to Saudi Arabia, signifies a slow rapprochement between the two governments who restored diplomatic relations last year. Ambassador Ayman Soussan stated that a Syrian Airlines plane carrying 170 passengers landed in Riyadh, marking the resumption of a regular route. The two countries have agreed to operate one round-trip flight per week between Riyadh and Damascus after the long pause prompted by Syria’s civil war. Syrian transport ministry official Suleiman Khalil mentioned that the direct route could be expanded to cover airports in the Saudi cities of Jeddah and Dammam, depending on demand.
Passenger flights between Syria and Saudi Arabia were halted in 2012 when Riyadh severed ties with Damascus. Services between the two countries resumed in May on a temporary basis for pilgrims participating in the annual Muslim hajj pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina. Saudi Arabia appointed a new ambassador to Damascus in May, more than a year after the two countries re-established relations. In May 2023, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad attended his first Arab summit in 13 years in Saudi Arabia, signaling a mending of ties with Riyadh and marking the country’s return to the regional fold. This renewed air connection between Syria and Saudi Arabia is a significant step towards normalizing relations and fostering greater cooperation between the two nations.
With the resumption of regular flights between Syria and Saudi Arabia, travelers and businesses on both sides stand to benefit from increased connectivity and easier access to each other’s markets. The weekly round-trip flight between Riyadh and Damascus provides a convenient and direct link for passengers looking to travel between the two countries. The potential expansion of the route to include airports in Jeddah and Dammam further enhances connectivity and opens up more opportunities for trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges. As the two nations continue to strengthen their ties, this air service agreement is a positive development that paves the way for enhanced bilateral cooperation in various sectors.
The restoration of air travel between Syria and Saudi Arabia comes as part of broader efforts to rebuild diplomatic relations and foster regional stability. The resumption of flights signifies a thaw in relations between the two countries, which have been strained in recent years due to geopolitical conflicts and regional tensions. By re-establishing direct air links, Syria and Saudi Arabia are taking a step towards normalizing their relationship and promoting people-to-people exchanges. This move also reflects a growing trend towards regional cooperation and dialogue, as countries in the Middle East seek to address common challenges and work towards shared goals of peace, security, and prosperity.
The decision to resume regular flights between Syria and Saudi Arabia underscores the importance of dialogue and engagement in resolving conflicts and building mutual trust. By re-establishing this crucial air link, the two countries are not only facilitating travel and trade but also sending a signal of goodwill and a commitment to resolving differences through peaceful means. The resumption of air services is a tangible manifestation of the ongoing diplomatic efforts to improve relations and promote stability in the region. As the two nations work towards strengthening their ties, the revival of direct flights is a positive step that can help create a foundation for future cooperation and collaboration in various fields.
In conclusion, the resumption of regular flights between Syria and Saudi Arabia is a significant development that underscores the potential for enhanced cooperation and engagement between the two countries. This move reflects a broader trend towards regional integration and dialogue, as nations in the Middle East seek to rebuild relations and promote peace and stability in the region. By re-establishing direct air links, Syria and Saudi Arabia are not only improving connectivity and access but also laying the groundwork for deeper cooperation and understanding. As they continue to build on this positive momentum, the renewed air connection between the two countries holds the promise of greater mutual benefits and a brighter future for both nations.
