After more than a decade of limited international connectivity, Damascus International Airport is once again on the radar of global travelers, with Emirates’ decision to resume flights from Dubai in July 2025 marking a pivotal moment. For Syrians abroad and curious visitors alike, the move signals a cautious but meaningful reopening of one of the region’s most historic capitals to the wider world. From new routes and schedules to practical on-the-ground advice, here is everything you need to know about flying into Damascus today and planning a safe, smooth trip.
Emirates Returns to Damascus: What Has Changed
Emirates suspended flights to Damascus in 2012 as the Syrian conflict escalated, cutting off one of the most convenient gateways between Syria and the rest of the world. In June 2025, the airline announced that it would reintroduce services from Dubai to Damascus starting 16 July 2025, following a comprehensive safety and regulatory review with the UAE’s General Civil Aviation Authority and Syrian aviation authorities. The first flights operated in mid-July, symbolically restoring the “City of Jasmine” to the carrier’s Middle East network.
The initial phase of the relaunch saw three weekly flights between Dubai and Damascus, operated on Mondays, Wednesdays and Sundays. Within weeks, Emirates expanded the schedule to four weekly services by adding a Saturday rotation, with a clear roadmap to daily operations from late October 2025. This step-by-step build-up allowed the airline and regulators to monitor operational conditions, demand and airport readiness while gradually restoring capacity on the route.
For travelers, the biggest change is not just the return of a familiar red-and-white tailfin at Damascus International Airport, but the reconnection of Syria to Emirates’ vast global network. From the Americas and Europe to Asia, Africa and Australasia, passengers can once again connect via Dubai to reach Damascus on a single ticket, with through-check of baggage, coordinated schedules and access to Emirates’ customer service infrastructure.
The relaunch also comes at a time when the airport itself has undergone repairs and upgrades to key facilities, including runway maintenance, terminal refurbishments and improvements in security screening procedures. While services may not yet match pre-2011 levels in terms of retail options and lounges, the airport is broadly capable of handling modern widebody aircraft and growing passenger volumes with relative efficiency.
Flight Schedules, Aircraft and Onboard Experience
Emirates’ Dubai–Damascus route is operated by a Boeing 777-200LR, configured with Business and Economy cabins. The typical schedule has flight EK913 departing Dubai around midday and arriving at Damascus early afternoon, while the return service EK914 leaves Damascus in the late afternoon, reaching Dubai in the evening. Exact departure and arrival times can vary by season and operational adjustments, so travelers should always verify their timings at the time of booking and again before departure.
The choice of the Boeing 777-200LR reflects Emirates’ strategy of using a versatile long-range aircraft that can serve both regional and intercontinental connections. Business Class passengers can expect lie-flat or deeply reclining seats, multi-course meals and a generous baggage allowance, while Economy travelers benefit from seatback entertainment, free meals and drinks, and access to Emirates’ extensive inflight entertainment system. The relatively short sector between Dubai and Damascus makes the journey comfortable even after a long-haul connection.
Importantly, the route is integrated into Emirates’ wider network planning. Connections are timed to feed in from major long-haul markets such as London, Paris, Frankfurt, Toronto and various US gateways, as well as regional destinations in the Gulf and South Asia. This makes it possible for members of the Syrian diaspora to travel from their adopted homes to Damascus with a single carrier, minimizing layovers and simplifying itineraries that used to require patchwork combinations of regional airlines.
Travelers should keep in mind that schedules can be subject to change for operational or regulatory reasons. In late 2025, for example, Emirates announced that flights between Dubai and Damascus would be suspended from mid-November until further notice following an internal operational review, with passengers rebooked on partner airline flydubai. Prospective visitors therefore need to monitor airline announcements closely and maintain some flexibility in their travel plans when booking several months ahead.
Connectivity Beyond Emirates: flydubai and Regional Options
While Emirates’ return captured international headlines, it is not the only carrier linking Dubai and Damascus. In fact, flydubai became the first UAE airline to touch down again at Damascus International Airport when it resumed daily flights from Dubai on 1 June 2025. Operating from Terminal 2 at Dubai International Airport, flydubai offers a narrowbody, low-cost style service but with business and economy cabins and connectivity into the broader Emirates and flydubai joint network.
Flydubai’s daily timetable, with an early morning departure from Dubai and a mid-morning return from Damascus, is particularly convenient for point-to-point travelers and those connecting onto midday and afternoon departures from Dubai to other parts of the world. When Emirates paused its own Damascus services in November 2025, passengers with existing bookings were automatically moved onto flydubai flights, preserving the crucial air link between the two cities.
Beyond the UAE, several regional carriers have either resumed or announced intentions to restart limited services to Syrian airports, though frequencies and routes can shift quickly in response to security, political and commercial factors. Travelers might find occasional flights from regional hubs in the Middle East, but capacity remains far below pre-conflict levels. For most international passengers, Dubai remains the most practical and reliable gateway into Damascus thanks to its dense web of connections and the coordinated schedules of Emirates and flydubai.
For travelers who prioritize flexibility, it is worth considering an itinerary that combines a long-haul ticket to Dubai on a major carrier with a separate regional ticket on flydubai or another regional airline. However, this approach requires more careful planning around minimum connection times, visa requirements in transit and baggage policies, as protection in case of missed connections is not as robust as it is on a single through-ticket with Emirates and its close partners.
Entry Requirements, Visas and Travel Advisories
Before booking flights to Damascus, travelers must carefully check entry rules and advisories issued by their own governments. Syria remains subject to various international sanctions and security advisories, and conditions on the ground can differ significantly from typical leisure destinations in the region. Many Western governments continue to advise against non-essential travel to Syria, citing security concerns, potential for sudden escalations and limited consular support.
Visa policies depend heavily on nationality. Citizens of neighboring Arab countries may find comparatively straightforward visa arrangements, while travelers from Europe, North America or Asia are likely to require pre-arranged visas obtained through Syrian embassies or authorized intermediaries. In many cases, visas are not available on arrival, and airlines can refuse boarding to passengers whose documentation does not clearly satisfy entry requirements. Travelers should confirm the latest requirements with Syrian diplomatic missions and cross-check with their airline in the weeks leading up to departure.
In addition to visas, travelers should ensure that their passports do not contain any entry or exit stamps that might conflict with Syrian regulations or regional politics. Requirements in this regard have evolved over time, and they can be highly sensitive. When in doubt, consult directly with the embassy or consulate and disclose all potentially relevant travel history to avoid complications at immigration.
Insurance is another crucial consideration. Many standard travel insurance policies exclude coverage for destinations under active travel advisories or sanctions, which can leave visitors exposed in the event of medical emergencies, evacuations or trip disruptions. Specialized providers may offer policies that cover travel to high-risk destinations, but premiums can be higher and conditions strict. Taking the time to secure appropriate coverage before departure is an essential part of responsible trip planning to Damascus.
What to Expect at Damascus International Airport
Damascus International Airport has endured years of underinvestment, conflict-related damage and fluctuating operations, but recent efforts have aimed to restore basic functionality and improve the traveler experience. Many of the core facilities, such as check-in areas, security screening lanes and immigration counters, are operational, though they may feel more utilitarian and less polished than major Gulf or European hubs. Travelers should come prepared for occasional delays, manual procedures and a more low-key commercial offering inside the terminal.
Retail and dining options are available, but they are limited compared with large international airports. A small selection of cafés, snack stands, souvenir shops and duty-free outlets can be found airside and landside, but opening hours may not always align with flight departures, especially late at night or early in the morning. It is wise to eat a proper meal before leaving your origin airport and carry essential snacks, especially if traveling with children or on tight connections.
On arrival, passport control can vary from swift to slow depending on the number of flights landing around the same time and the thoroughness of checks. Have all your documents ready, including printed copies of visas, hotel reservations or local contact details, and be prepared to answer basic questions about the purpose and duration of your stay. Baggage claim and customs are generally straightforward, but random inspections are possible, especially for large quantities of electronics, camera equipment or professional gear.
Ground transportation options from the airport to central Damascus are relatively limited compared with pre-conflict days. Official taxis and pre-arranged private transfers are the most reliable options, with fares typically negotiated in advance or based on agreed schedules. Public buses or informal shared transport may be available, but visitors who are unfamiliar with the city or do not speak Arabic are usually better served by pre-booking a trusted driver through a hotel, local contact or reputable agency. Nighttime arrivals may require additional coordination to ensure safe onward travel.
Safety, Security and On-the-Ground Realities
Any decision to travel to Damascus today must be made with a clear understanding of the broader security context. While front lines have shifted and, in many parts of the capital, daily life has taken on a semblance of normalcy, the situation remains complex. Occasional flare-ups, infrastructure challenges and the legacy of years of conflict shape everything from electricity and water supplies to healthcare capacity and public services.
Visitors should stay updated on local conditions through multiple channels, including their own embassies or consulates, international news organizations and trusted contacts on the ground. Once in Damascus, it is prudent to follow local guidance on where and when to move around the city, avoid large gatherings or sensitive sites and respect any restrictions around photography, drones or professional filming equipment.
Basic precautions familiar from other high-risk destinations apply. Keep a low profile in public, secure valuables, and carry photocopies of important documents separate from originals. Reliable local guides or fixers can be invaluable in navigating checkpoints, understanding neighborhood dynamics and arranging transportation. Hotels and guesthouses that regularly host foreign visitors will typically have experience advising guests on safe routes and appropriate behavior.
Despite the challenges, many visitors report that Damascus retains its reputation for hospitality, deep cultural roots and a strong sense of community resilience. Cafés and markets have reopened, historic sites are slowly welcoming more visitors again, and the return of international flights has injected both symbolic and practical momentum into efforts to rebuild. The key is to approach the city with respect, awareness and realistic expectations.
Practical Travel Tips for Flying via Dubai to Damascus
For most international travelers, the journey to Damascus will begin with a long-haul or regional flight into Dubai, followed by a shorter sector on Emirates or flydubai. To make the most of this routing, consider booking an itinerary that allows at least a few hours of buffer in Dubai, particularly on the outbound leg. This reduces stress if your first flight is delayed and gives you enough time to clear security, move between terminals if needed and board your Damascus flight without rushing.
When selecting flights, factor in the time of day you will be arriving in Damascus. Early afternoon arrivals can be advantageous, allowing enough daylight for the drive into the city and giving you time to settle into your accommodation. If your itinerary forces a late-night arrival, coordinate with your hotel or a local contact to arrange a pre-booked pickup and confirm that someone will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall.
Pack with the local environment in mind. Damascus experiences hot, dry summers and cool winters, with evenings that can be surprisingly chilly. Modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is recommended out of cultural respect, and layers are useful for adjusting to changing temperatures between air-conditioned interiors and the outdoors. Power outages and fluctuating internet connectivity remain realities, so packing a power bank, printed copies of key documents and offline maps is wise.
Finally, keep your digital footprint and communications secure. Use a virtual private network if your home country allows it, set up two-factor authentication on important accounts before traveling and share your itinerary with trusted family or friends. While thousands of people safely navigate this route every month, contingency planning and situational awareness remain essential parts of any trip to Damascus in 2026.
Looking Ahead: What Emirates’ Return Means for Syrian Travel
The resumption of Emirates flights to Damascus, even with later adjustments to schedules, represents much more than an additional set of departure times on an airport board. It is a visible sign of Syria’s gradual reintegration into regional aviation networks and a practical lifeline for families, business travelers and aid workers who need a dependable connection between the country and the wider world. The partnership between Emirates and flydubai, with coordinated schedules and shared networks, has reestablished Dubai as the prime gateway for travel to and from Damascus.
In economic terms, restored connectivity supports trade, investment and the movement of skilled professionals. Cargo capacity on passenger flights can facilitate the flow of essential goods, from medical supplies to technical equipment, while easier travel encourages entrepreneurial Syrians in the Gulf, Europe and North America to reengage with projects on the ground. Tourism in the conventional sense may still be limited, but niche segments such as cultural heritage specialists, academics and tightly controlled tour groups are beginning to factor Damascus back into their plans.
The future, however, remains contingent on stability, infrastructure improvements and ongoing regulatory cooperation. Airlines will continue to assess the route’s commercial viability, operational safety and political risks. Travelers, in turn, will weigh the appeal of visiting one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities against the complexities that still surround any trip to Syria. For now, the reopening of Damascus International Airport to Emirates and other regional carriers stands as a cautious yet hopeful chapter in the country’s long and often turbulent aviation story.
For those willing and able to navigate the practical and ethical considerations, flying into Damascus via Dubai is once again possible. With careful planning, up-to-date information and a respectful approach to local realities, travelers can reconnect with the Syrian capital, whether to reunite with family, conduct essential work or witness firsthand a city striving to reestablish its links with the world beyond its ancient walls.