Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa Highlights Saudi Arabia’s Economic Role At Future Investment Initiative

 

Syrian President Ahmed Al-Sharaa highlighted Saudi Arabia’s significant influence in the region during a panel at the ninth annual Future Investment Initiative (FII9) in Riyadh. He praised Saudi Arabia as an economic guide for investors, driven by the vision of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Al-Sharaa noted that economic growth challenges are pressing issues, emphasizing that economic stability is tied to regional security.

Al-Sharaa discussed Syria’s recent turmoil, which led to crises and irregular migration. He acknowledged Syria’s strategic location as a historical gateway to the east and a key Silk Road route. This position has attracted major powers due to its human resources and diverse economy. He stated that Syria is now opening up to the world, regaining its regional standing with support from friendly nations like Saudi Arabia.

The Syrian president mentioned that Syria has seen $28 billion in investments during the first half of 2025, showcasing its economic recovery potential. He stressed that countries emerging from conflict often struggle to revive quickly, but Syria has leveraged its experiences and regional developments to attract investment opportunities recognized globally.

Al-Sharaa emphasized ongoing extensive work in Syria, with investments growing positively. He noted that past calamities now present opportunities for reconstruction and development. The president highlighted changes in investment laws favoring investors, allowing profit transfers abroad. These reforms have been ranked among the world’s top ten investment frameworks.

Syria offers diverse investment opportunities, especially in real estate, which combines economic benefits with infrastructure rebuilding. The president described Syria as a unique tourist destination with ancient heritage sites, varied climates, and natural landscapes like deserts and mountains. Additionally, Syria’s agricultural capacity can feed 250–300 million people despite having a population under 25 million.

On energy, Al-Sharaa noted that while not a conventional oil producer, Syria’s oil output is around 1 million barrels daily, with natural gas production at 40 million cubic meters per day. The country also possesses substantial offshore and desert gas reserves and developed logistics services.

Strategic Partnerships and Regional Integration

Al-Sharaa highlighted partnerships with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE holding significant investments in Syria. Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan are discussing involvement too. Türkiye has shown interest through joint projects, while some American companies have partnered with firms investing in Damascus International Airport.

Aleppo International Airport is expected to begin investment operations soon. The president emphasized ongoing integration creating a comprehensive economic cycle among key nations possessing strategic locations and abundant resources.

Syria’s Human Resources and Economic Policies

Al-Sharaa spotlighted Syria’s skilled human resources educated globally and strong industrial sectors capable of building a sustainable economy. He stated that protecting investors involves safeguarding their investments through policies supporting local production by imposing tariffs or restricting imports of similar goods.

The president explained that Syria cannot fully open its markets yet due to limited production capacity. Instead, it protects local output initially while offering legal protection for investments through international courts and third-party arbitration recognition.

“For a long time,” Al-Sharaa said, “I have been following the vision put forward by HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.” He added that this vision extends beyond Saudi Arabia to encompass the entire region.

The Syrian president expressed optimism about future collaborations with Saudi Arabia and other regional partners. He believes these partnerships will foster prosperity through shared resources like strategic locations overlooking vital waterways.