Syria: What to Know Before You Go

Cuisine Highlights

• Kibbeh, ground lamb and bulgur wheat shaped into shells and stuffed with spiced meat and pine nuts; fried or baked; Syria's most iconic dish in dozens of regional variations
• Fattoush and tabbouleh, fresh herb salads with toasted pita; Syrian tabbouleh is parsley-heavy and brightly acidic with pomegranate molasses
• Aleppo pepper, the world-famous mildly spicy, fruity red pepper from northern Syria; essential to Syrian and global Middle Eastern cooking
• Shawarma, Syria's street food perfection; slow-rotisserie meat (chicken or lamb) served in bread with tahini, pickles, and garlic sauce

Traditions & Festivals

• Ancient heritage, Syria is home to some of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities; Damascus and Aleppo are among the oldest cities on earth
• Eid celebrations and Ramadan, Islamic holidays shape the national calendar; Syria was historically home to a significant Christian minority who also celebrate Easter and Christmas
• Silk Road legacy, Palmyra, Bosra, and the Crac des Chevaliers were extraordinary historic sites before the civil war caused devastating damage

Language & Communication

Arabic (Syrian Levantine dialect) is the official language. English and French are spoken by educated Syrians, especially in Damascus and Aleppo.

Key phrase: "Marhaba" (مرحبا) means hello; "Shukran" (شكرا) means thank you. Syria has been devastated by a civil war since 2011, most Western governments advise against all travel.

The security situation varies by region and continues to evolve; consult current advisories from your government before considering any visit.

Cultural Etiquette

• Syrians are renowned for extraordinary hospitality, historically among the most welcoming people in the Arab world; this culture persists despite years of crisis
• Dress conservatively, Syria is predominantly Muslim and more conservative dress is expected especially outside of regime-controlled urban centers
• Do not photograph military positions, checkpoints, or anything sensitive, the consequences can be severe
• Be aware of the political complexity, there are multiple competing authorities in different parts of Syria; local knowledge and guidance are essential