Al-Sharaa: Syria has become a great opportunity

Dubai (Agencies): Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa affirmed that Syria, which the world once viewed as a major problem, has now transformed into a “great opportunity from which everyone benefits,” reclaiming its regional and international role. Speaking as the keynote speaker at the Arab Media Summit 2026, held yesterday at the Dubai World Trade Centre, President al-Sharaa stated that “Syria has shifted from being an exporter of Captagon and a zone of conflict to an area of stability. The world has begun discussing it as a safe commercial corridor for supply chains between East and West, as well as for energy supplies.”

During a dialogue session at the summit titled “Syria’s Future,” President al-Sharaa added that “the UAE was among the first countries to seize opportunities in Syria, with DP World investing in the port of Tartous.” He emphasized that Syrians today feel a deep sense of connection and eagerness regarding their Arab and Muslim brothers’ joy over the victory, noting that the liberation of Damascus restored Syrians’ trust in the state and renewed hope not only for Syrians but for the entire region.

President al-Sharaa explained that Syria endured 60 years of administrative corruption and poor planning, but is now rebuilding itself and its institutions. He noted that this phase presents special conditions under which they strive to benefit from all experiences despite the challenges. He pointed out that Syria could become a destination attracting Gulf, Arab, and international investment in the coming period, highlighting that the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, and other countries have begun investing in Syria alongside European investors.

He added that investment memoranda of understanding have started to enter into force and major projects are being discussed with UAE investors, noting that the volume of investment opportunities in Syria is very large, particularly in real estate and tourism sectors. President al-Sharaa also noted that Syria could play an important part in strategic alternatives for energy supplies, and that modern agricultural technologies could raise Syria’s capacity to provide food for more than 100 million people.

Regarding Syria’s economic ambitions, he said: “Syria is rich in economic and investment opportunities and holds a strategic location linking East and West. Investments are increasingly flowing in from Gulf countries, Europe, and other regions around the world. Major projects have begun in many real estate and tourism sectors, and we are negotiating new projects. Syria is well-positioned to become a basket for regional food supplies, meeting the region’s food needs and strengthening regional food security. It currently has a food surplus, and with modern technologies, it will reach the capacity to feed 100 million people.” He affirmed that Syria will be a natural country witnessing strong and sustainable economic growth, striving to consolidate the dignity, independence, honor, and generosity of its citizens.

Continuing, President al-Sharaa stated: “After the liberation of Damascus, there were threats of internal division, sectarian wars, and challenges related to infrastructure, energy, and sanctions. We overcame these very quickly.”

During a dialogue titled “Syria’s Future,” part of the official opening of the Arab Media Summit 2026 in Dubai, al-Sharaa predicted that his country’s economy would reach $50 billion by 2026, compared to $32 billion in 2025 and $20 billion in 2024. He projected that the Syrian economy would reach $60 billion in 2027, matching the level recorded in 2010.

On regional developments, President al-Sharaa noted that Syria’s exit from the conflict zone alone is not enough to maintain regional stability. He added: “We are working with our Arab brothers to reduce the effects of war and avoid anticipated future risks.” He clarified that instability in the region due to the expansion of wars directly affects Syria’s economic growth.

At the beginning of the dialogue session with journalist Ammar Taqi, President al-Sharaa said: “Before I begin answering, I wish to express my feelings: Syrians today have a beautiful sense of connection, particularly with the eagerness of their Arab and Muslim brothers and their joy over the victory and the liberation of Damascus, as well as the sadness and pain they shared with us during the war and the suffering endured by the Syrian people.”

He continued: “Among the most beautiful and sincere of these sentiments was what Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid said days after the liberation of Damascus: ‘The people of Syria have a place in the heart... and Damascus, its love before and after.’”

Dedicating part of his remarks to the role of media, al-Sharaa stated that “the minds of viewers are a trust in the hands of journalists,” emphasizing that the media’s message represents a “heavy trust.” He stressed the importance of ensuring credibility and reliability of information and avoiding politicization, given the significant impact media has on society.