Qatar Airways to resume flights to Damascus starting January 7

Qatar Airways has announced it will resume flights to Syria's capital, Damascus, beginning January 7, 2025.

The national flag carrier revealed the decision in a statement on January 2, confirming the relaunch of three weekly flights to the city, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media.

The airline explained that the move reflects its commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and addressing growing passenger demand. Qatar Airways is collaborating with relevant authorities to ensure all safety, security, and operational standards are met before the flights resume.

“We are pleased to resume flights to Damascus, a destination of great historical and cultural importance,” said Qatar Airways CEO Badr Mohammed Al-Meer.

This announcement comes shortly after Qatar's State Minister Mohamed Al-Khulaifi hinted at the possibility of direct air links between Doha and Syria in a meeting on December 23 with Ahmed Al-Sharaa, head of Syria’s new administration. Al-Khulaifi emphasized the importance of these potential connections in supporting further bilateral relations.

The decision to re-establish air travel between Doha and Damascus follows significant geopolitical shifts in Syria. Bashar al-Assad, Syria’s long-time leader, fled to Russia after anti-regime groups seized control of Damascus on December 8, effectively ending the Baath Party’s rule that had lasted for more than five decades.

By Vugar Khalilov