Qatar Airways announced on Thursday that it will restart flights to Damascus, Syria, after a nearly 13-year hiatus. Beginning January 7, 2025, the airline will operate three weekly flights to the Syrian capital.
The airline described this move as a "significant step in reconnecting the region," coming just a month after Islamist-led rebels overthrew Bashar al-Assad, ending over a decade of civil war.
"Qatar Airways is working closely with the relevant authorities to ensure all necessary safety, security, and operational standards are met," the airline stated. CEO Badr Mohammed Al-Meer highlighted the cultural and historical significance of Damascus and expressed satisfaction at resuming flights to the city.
A Qatari official revealed that Doha had offered support to Syria's new authorities to help restore operations at Damascus airport. Qatar was one of the first countries, after Turkey, to reopen its embassy in Damascus following Assad’s ouster in December 2024.
Doha, a key supporter of the armed rebellion against Assad’s regime, had previously maintained a critical stance toward the former government. Unlike several neighboring states, Qatar refrained from renewing ties with Assad’s government even after Syria rejoined the Arab diplomatic community last year.
