Overview

How the private sector is driving growth in Syria’s ICT sector
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The ICT sector is entering a new phase following more than a decade of conflict that disrupted infrastructure and constrained network expansion and digitalisation. As Syrians return and reconstruction gathers pace, there is an opportunity to modernise telecommunications infrastructure and expand digital services access. Strengthening connectivity will be an important foundation for economic recovery,…

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Growth in Syria’s agriculture fuelled by renewed investment strategy
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Agriculture in Syria has been a major contributor to GDP thanks to the large quantity of exports the sector produces and the jobs it creates. However, during the conflict, many farmers were forced to leave their land, while a large quantity of agricultural infrastructure was destroyed. The government is now concentrating on rehabilitation efforts and supporting farmers seeking to return to their livelihoods…

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How Syria is restoring its education and health infrastructure
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Reconstruction has laid solid foundations for the revitalisation of Syria’s education and health care sectors, setting the stage for a new chapter of growth and opportunity. Building on this early momentum, the government is working to design comprehensive sectoral reforms, drawing on international best practices to ensure lasting impact. While realising the full potential of these sectors will likely…

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Syria’s hotels in and around Damascus for visitors
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ROYAL SEMIRAMIS Sa’adallah Al-Jabri Street, Victoria Bridge, Damascus T: +963 11 9664; +963 946 900 522 www.royal-semiramis.com info@royal-semiramis.com Rooms: 118 rooms and suites. Business & Conference Facilities: Grand ballroom, several meeting rooms and a business lounge for corporate and social functions. Health & Leisure Facilities: Rooftop swimming pool, tanning…

Overview

Useful Syria tips for business and leisure travelers
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Security Security conditions can change rapidly. Visitors should work through a trusted local host, keep a flexible itinerary, avoid demonstrations and crowds, and follow authorities’ directions. Keep a printed copy of host and accommodation details, remain on established routes – especially outside Damascus – and do not photograph military, security or government sites. Communications Syria’s…

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Qatar’s resiliency in an evolving geopolitical landscape
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Qatar’s economic outlook in 2026 is being shaped by a complex regional environment, with the Iran conflict serving as the most significant external shock of the year. The conflict has tested energy infrastructure, trade routes and crisis management capabilities across the Gulf, creating short-term pressures on liquefied natural gas (LNG) production and maritime logistics. At the same time, it has…

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Qatar's economic reforms drive non-hydrocarbons growth
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Qatar’s economic trajectory over the past two decades has been shaped by a centralised leadership model and a clear strategic commitment to diversification. Under the leadership of the Amir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, economic policymaking is closely coordinated across a small number of institutions, allowing the government to align fiscal policy, investment strategy, monetary management and…

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Qatar's free zone growth boosts trade and investment
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Qatar occupies a strategic position in global trade as the world’s second-largest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG). While trade revenue has historically withstood hydrocarbons price volatility, 2026 has brought new challenges, including export disruptions, shipping constraints and damage to LNG infrastructure. At the same time, reforms introduced following a modest post-2022 World Cup decline…

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Qatar's banking sector drives digital growth and diversification
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Qatar’s economic diversification goals under its long-term economic blueprint – Qatar National Vision (QNV) 2030 – positions its banking sector and its dynamic Islamic finance segment as an important pillar for sustainable development and non-fossil fuel growth. Financial and insurance services continue to be an important driver of Qatar’s economic growth, with sector contribution to GDP gradually…

Overview

Qatar's Islamic finance sector gains momentum
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Qatar’s Islamic finance sector has become an increasingly important component of the country’s broader financial system, supported by the expansion of sharia-compliant banking, takaful (Islamic insurance) and sukuk (Islamic bonds) issuance. The sector benefits from a well-established regulatory framework and strong institutional participation, helping position Qatar as a key player in regional…