Middle East
Is Syria safe?
L4Do not travel
Is Syria safe?
Islamic State bombings hit central Damascus in July 2026, kidnapping is a real threat, and parts of the south, notably Suwayda, are held by local armed groups.
Key facts
- US travel advisory: Level 4: Do not travel, updated 2025-12-10.
- Homicide rate: 2.1 per 100,000 people (2010, UNODC via World Bank).
- Road deaths: 14.9 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Emergency numbers: Police 112 · Ambulance 110 · Fire 113.
- Solo women: Conservative; cover hair in mosques and dress modestly. Solo foreign women are rare; travel with a vetted local guide.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Islamic State bombings, including cafés and hotels in Damascus
- Kidnapping for ransom or by terrorist groups
- Landmines off main roads and in ruins
- Sectarian clashes; Suwayda outside government control
Laws visitors break by accident
- Unlicensed political activity is banned; avoid rallies.
- Drug possession can bring life imprisonment.
- Carry copies of your passport and visa at checkpoints.
Safety by place in Syria
| Place | Safety |
|---|---|
| Damascus | 1/5 · Avoid travel |
Quick answers
Is Syria safe for tourists?
Islamic State bombings hit central Damascus in July 2026, kidnapping is a real threat, and parts of the south, notably Suwayda, are held by local armed groups.
Is Syria safe for solo female travelers?
Conservative; cover hair in mosques and dress modestly. Solo foreign women are rare; travel with a vetted local guide.
What is the emergency number in Syria?
Police 112 · Ambulance 110 · Fire 113.
Safety by place
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Syria
- Syria e-visa portal
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.