With conflicts in Syria recently subsided and sanctions lifted by the Trump administration, the economy has started to strengthen and the new political landscape is open to foreign investments. Due to conflict in the country, there is a lack of infrastructure and services, making Syria an interesting spot for opportunistic investors.
Understanding the Business Landscape for Foreign Investors
Syria provides a market for investors that is still at the early stages of development and is being rebuilt from the foundations. It provides incentives and reforms, but investors must balance that enthusiasm with weak governance, perpetual instability and an underdeveloped banking system.
Current Economic Climate
Syria is still very much affected by the consequences of war and the macroeconomic situation still bears the consequences of the external conflicts. Although the countries gross national income is below par, there are large investments coming in to improve infrastructure and reports predicting a slow growing economy is underway. Earlier this year (2025), the Syrian Government issued ‘Decree 114/2025’, signing off on an updated investment framework that aligns with international norms.
Key Industries and Sectors That Are Expanding
The recovery of Syria is already underway and especially in the sectors of infrastructure construction (water, power, transport, new buildings and other general construction) , healthcare (medical equipment, pharmaceuticals and hospitals), services (banking, reform of banking and new investment banking), and security (cyber and physical security).
Opportunities for UK Businesses in Syria
UK companies are in a unique position to support the restoration of war-torn Syria as they have the capacity to deliver in the most needed areas of infrastructure, healthcare, and financial services. The reputation of UK firms is highly valued in Syria and there is also increased demand for UK goods.
In the short term, there is a wider prospect for large government contracts, for instance, in the energy and transport sectors.
Challenges of Doing Business in Syria
The main downside is the risk involved. The security situation is unstable in certain regions of the country. Syria has high levels of corruption and there is minimal transparency.
The country also has a poorly functioning banking sector, weak infrastructure and local operations will likely be affected by unfriendly regulations or inefficient bureaucratic systems.
Visa and Residency Requirements
Foreign investors and businessmen and women must get a visa if they want to enter Syria and the process has to be done using the Syrian e-visa platform. This process usually takes 5-7 days, but may take longer.
Steps for Entrepreneurs Entering Syria
Entrepreneurs should move their business into Syria with caution and ideally build local business partnerships and relationships. They should also ensure that they follow the law and comply with the regulations (especially if there are sanctions) and if UK-based, work with support of the UK.
Step 1: Conduct Market Research
Market Research should involve a thorough understanding of the Syrian economy, the demand and supply of the target sector and an identification of potential local stakeholders to support the business.
Step 2: Ensure Sanctions Compliance
Engage legal and compliance specialists to understand and ensure compliance with the legal sanctions policies internationally. Be sure to review sanctions guidance and ensure there is full visibility on the transaction structures.
Step 3: Choose an Entry Route
Based on your risk appetite you can choose to establish a joint venture with a local company, open a branch office or work with a trusted commercial agent/distributor.
Step 4: Utilise Local Institutional Support
Utilise the one-stop investor service centres of the Syrian Investment Authority to efficiently obtain the necessary licenses.
Step 5: Ensure Appropriate Security and Insurance Arrangements
Due to the potential security risks, ensure that appropriate security arrangements and insurance provisions are in place.
Step 6: Build Local Networks
Establish connections with trusted local collaborators, representatives and consultants who can manoeuvre the business landscape, culture and red tape.
Step 7: Financial Transaction Planning
Stack the odds in your favour and reduce potential risk factors posed by the banking sector. You should ensure that your finances are structured with risk mitigation options.
Step 8: Continuous Assessment of Legal and Operational Risk
Implement and maintain effective controls, and regularly reassess risks with respect to the political, compliance and financial aspects. These should include stringent adherence to regulations and effective corporate governance.
