Why is Saudi Arabia launching a joint airline and a 12 million-passenger airport in Syria?

The Syrian government and Saudi Arabia have signed a comprehensive set of strategic agreements in Damascus. These deals focus on key sectors: aviation, telecommunications, and infrastructure. The agreements mark a significant step in Syria’s effort to rebuild its economy after years of conflict.

Saudi Arabia is a major backer of the new authorities in Damascus. They took power after the ouster of Bashar al-Assad in December 2024. The deals follow the United States fully removing its remaining sanctions on Damascus late last year. This removal of sanctions has paved the way for the return of foreign investment.

Aviation Sector Overhaul

Central to the new partnership is a major investment in Syria's aviation sector. Syrian Investment Authority chief Talal al-Hilali announced the creation of a Syria-Saudi Arabia joint airline. This new low-cost carrier aims to strengthen regional and international air links.

Flynas Syria Takes Flight

Reports indicate the new carrier will be called Flynas Syria. It will be a joint venture led by the Saudi low-cost airline Flynas. The launch of a low-cost carrier is intended to make air travel more accessible. It will also boost tourism and reconnect diaspora communities.

Aleppo Airport's 12 Million Passenger Vision

The agreement also includes a massive infrastructure project in northern Syria. This involves the development of a new international airport in Aleppo. The project will also redevelop the existing facility. The new airport is planned to handle a 12 million passenger capacity annually. This expansion aims to position Aleppo as a major regional transport hub.

Broader Infrastructure Investment

The aviation deals are part of a wider strategic partnership. Saudi Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih announced the launch of the Elaf Investment Fund. This fund will support major projects in Syria with private sector participation.

SilkLink Telecommunications Project

Another key deal is the SilkLink telecommunications project. This initiative is valued at approximately $1 billion in investment. The project is led by the Saudi Telecom Company (STC Group). Its goal is to develop Syria’s digital infrastructure and connectivity. Syrian officials believe SilkLink will transform the country into a regional and global data transit hub.

Economic and Political Signals

The agreements target vital sectors essential for rebuilding the Syrian economy. The US envoy to Syria, Tom Barrack, applauded the deals. He noted they will contribute meaningfully to Syria's reconstruction efforts.

However, some analysts remain cautious about the immediate economic impact. Benjamin Feve, a senior research analyst, suggested the deals are more of a political signal than an economic game-changer. He noted that while significant, these projects alone are not sufficient to rebuild the entire country.

These new agreements build on previous commitments. Riyadh signed investment and partnership deals with Damascus worth $6.4 billion in July last year. The new Syria reconstruction investment signals a strong commitment from Gulf states. This is a critical factor for the long-term recovery of the nation's infrastructure.

• The new joint airline, Flynas Syria, will boost Middle East air links.
• The Aleppo International Airport project will increase capacity to 12 million passengers.
• The $1 billion SilkLink project aims to make Syria a major digital corridor.

This influx of capital, following the lifting of sanctions, creates a major opportunity. It allows Syria to reconnect with the global economy. Industry stakeholders, including IATA, will closely watch the execution of these ambitious plans.

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