Al-Sharaa from Riyadh: Syria Enters a New Phase of Economic and Investment Openness

Syrian Interim Government Prime Minister Ahmad Al-Sharaa affirmed during his speech at the ninth edition of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh—attended by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman—that Syria “stands today on the threshold of a major investment renaissance,” noting that Saudi Vision 2030 represents “a regional development project that extends beyond the Kingdom to encompass the entire region.”

Al-Sharaa stated that “the economy and security are interconnected, and Syria constitutes a key pillar of regional economic stability,” emphasizing his country’s commitment to strengthening investment cooperation with Saudi Arabia.

He added that Syria has attracted more than $28 billion in investments over the past six months, explaining that the country “is on track to become one of the emerging economies in the region thanks to its diverse resources in the agriculture, energy, and tourism sectors.”

Al-Sharaa noted that Damascus has chosen “the path of investment, not aid,” in its reconstruction phase, revealing that major Saudi and Qatari companies have already begun investing in the Syrian market, alongside ongoing negotiations with Gulf countries, Jordan, and Turkey to enhance economic cooperation. He also pointed to the interest of major American companies in investment opportunities in Syria.

He explained that the country’s new investment laws are among “the most attractive globally,” having been revised with input from international consulting firms, and that they grant investors the right to resort to international arbitration in case of disputes.

Al-Sharaa stressed that “economic stability is the path toward national stability,” noting that the government is working to protect investors and improve the business environment. He added: “Every crisis Syria has endured over the past 14 years is now a real investment opportunity—we are opening a new chapter of openness to the world.”

He concluded by reaffirming the strength of relations with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, saying: “We hold great affection for the Saudi people and are working to end the migration and refugee crisis and ensure the return of Syrians to their homeland,” emphasizing that Syria “will not be a burden on anyone, but rather an active partner in the stability and development of the region.”