Getting to Syria — Airport & Land Borders

There's more than one way into Syria, and the choice depends on where you're coming from and how much luggage you have.

Damascus International Airport

The main airport, about 25 km from central Damascus — 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and checkpoints.

What to expect on arrival:

• Passport and customs procedures
• Currency exchange in the hall
• A crowd of drivers at the arrivals gate — each quoting a different price

That last point is exactly why many people book their transport before they arrive. An expat landing at 3am with family and luggage, surrounded by ten drivers negotiating — not an experience anyone enjoys. See Damascus airport transfer.

Via Beirut

Many travelers fly into Beirut airport and continue overland to Damascus.

• Distance — about 110 km
• Time — 3 to 4 hours including the border
• Crossing — Masnaa / Jdeidet Yabous

Why people choose it: more flights to Beirut and wider airline options. Watch out: border times vary a lot with congestion; Fridays and holidays are longer.

Via Jordan

From Amman overland to Damascus via the Nasib / Jaber crossing — about 180 km, 4 to 5 hours including the border.

Via Turkey

Land crossings in the north, best for those coming from Turkey or northern Syria.

Practical tips

1. Arrange your transport before you arrive — especially for a night arrival or with family and luggage. The difference between someone waiting with your name and negotiating in the hall is big.

2. Mind the time. Syria is on UTC+3 all year — no daylight saving since 2022.

3. Confirm visa rules first — see visa & entry.

When you land

Airport pickup in Damascus or Aleppo, then a car with driver or private tour.

Wherever your road leads, we'll get you there.