Ahmed Al-Sharaa: Syria Is Now a Secure Trade Hub and Regional Anchor
During his participation as a keynote speaker at the Arab Media Summit 2026, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Ahmed Al-Sharaa underscored Syria’s successful transition from a conflict zone to a center of regional stability. He highlighted the country’s pivotal role as a secure trade corridor for supply chains linking East and West, as well as its strategic contribution to energy supplies.
Al-Sharaa noted that while the world previously viewed Syria as a source of instability, it is now recognized as a significant opportunity and an anchor point that benefits the entire region. He emphasized that the country’s stability is a shared interest for all. In a session titled “The Future of Syria,” Al-Sharaa pointed to massive investment opportunities attracting interest from Gulf states, neighboring countries, and Europe. He highlighted the United Arab Emirates as one of the first countries to capitalize on these investments, citing DP World’s operations in the port of Tartus as a model for the importance of Syrian trade corridors when linked to Jebel Ali Port.
Addressing the period following the liberation of Damascus, Al-Sharaa remarked that Syrians are regaining confidence in the state. He explained that the country is currently undergoing a transition characterized by the reconstruction of institutions and the rectification of decades of poor planning and administrative corruption. He asserted that Syria has successfully navigated major security and economic challenges, including threats of division and blockade. The lifting of international sanctions, some dating back to 1979, has marked a rebirth for the Syrian economy, facilitated by effective regional mediation.
Economically, Al-Sharaa highlighted Syria’s shift toward a liberalized system that supports the private sector, acknowledging the natural transitionary shocks accompanying this process. Economic indicators have shown marked growth, with the economy expanding from $20 billion in 2024 to $32 billion in 2025. Projections indicate the economy could reach $50 billion within the current year, with ambitious targets aiming to exceed $200 billion over the next decade.
Furthermore, Al-Sharaa emphasized that the Syrian agricultural sector is well-positioned to play a fundamental role in achieving food security for the region and the Gulf states through the application of modern technologies. He concluded his address by affirming that Syria adopts a foreign policy based on credibility and reliability, while maintaining an independent national decision-making process and a commitment to strengthening ties with its Arab and Islamic surroundings. He concluded by calling on media outlets to uphold the integrity of the word and to report facts objectively to serve Arab societies in the face of current challenges.
