Syria is planning a major new tourism development in Damascus called The Beaumont, a mixed-use project combining hospitality, residences and retail to support economic recovery and investment. Robbie Hodges reports

Syria’s Ministry of Tourism has announced a major new tourism development in Damascus, signalling efforts to rebuild the country’s visitor economy through large-scale investment. The project, known as The Beaumont, is being developed in partnership with Ezdihar Holding and is positioned as the country’s first fully integrated residential, commercial and leisure destination.

The Damascus tourism development will cover 77,000 sqm and involve an estimated investment of US$250-300 million. Construction will take place in phases and is expected to be completed within four years. Once operational, the project is forecast to generate between 1,500 and 2,500 direct jobs, along with an additional 3,000 to 3,500 indirect roles, highlighting its intended role in supporting economic recovery.

Located near Umayyad Square in central Damascus, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, The Beaumont is designed to attract both international visitors and business investment. Its central location is expected to appeal to companies seeking regional or national headquarters, as well as travellers looking for accommodation, dining and leisure options in a modern urban setting.

The development will include two high-rise towers built along the Barada River waterfront. One tower will house a five-star hotel with 150 rooms, including presidential suites, alongside restaurants, a private members’ club and a spa. The second tower will comprise 26 floors of residential units, ranging from one-bedroom serviced apartments to large duplex penthouses measuring up to 570 sqm, all offering views across the city.

Beyond accommodation, the Damascus tourism development will incorporate a two-level retail centre and an outdoor promenade lined with cafés and restaurants. A separate 10-storey business centre is also planned, aimed at attracting regional and international companies and supporting commercial activity within the capital.

H.E. Mazen Al Salhani, minister of tourism, says: “The Beaumont marks a pivotal milestone for Syria’s tourism sector, representing a major leap in our efforts to revitalise the industry and enhance the country’s appeal as a premier investment destination. Projects of this scale stimulate economic growth, attract high-quality investment, create sustainable jobs, and reinforce confidence in Syria’s future.

"Beyond infrastructure, this development sets a new benchmark for integrated tourism, transforming Damascus’ urban landscape, supporting related economic sectors, and showcasing our commitment to global standards through strategic partnerships that strengthen Syria’s competitiveness in the region.”

The project will be delivered through a 50-year joint venture between the Ministry of Tourism and Ezdihar Holding, operating with financial and administrative independence. Authorities say governance and oversight mechanisms are in place to ensure transparency throughout the development process, with the aim of building investor confidence.

Wafic Rida Said Said, founder and owner of Ezdihar Holding, says: “Tourism investment is a key driver of economic and social recovery, creating jobs and revitalising local communities. We commend the Ministry for fostering a transparent and well-regulated investment environment and for strengthening partnerships with the private sector as a central pillar of development.

"The Beaumont is a first-of-its-kind project in Syria, combining scale and international standards, delivering diverse tourism offerings to meet global demand, while enhancing hotel capacity and diversifying accommodation options to support a balanced and competitive hospitality market.”

As part of the wider initiative, Ezdihar Holding has also announced a training programme for 30 Ministry of Tourism employees at Saïd Business School, University of Oxford. The fully funded scheme will cover areas including hospitality, project management and tourism investment, with the aim of building local expertise in line with international standards.

The Beaumont is expected to become a prominent addition to Damascus’ urban landscape and a focal point for tourism and business activity. More broadly, the Damascus tourism development reflects a strategy centred on public-private partnerships to support long-term economic diversification and sector growth.