🐾 Traveling to Syria with Pets
Pet-Friendly Syria
Syria offers a rich cultural experience for pet owners, with pets commonly seen in urban areas and rural villages. In cities like Damascus and Aleppo, well-behaved dogs are welcome in many outdoor spaces, though traditions vary by region. Coastal areas like Tartus are more relaxed for pets.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Health Certificate
Dogs, cats, and ferrets need an international health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel.
Certificate must include proof of good health and freedom from infectious diseases.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination required, administered at least 30 days before entry.
Vaccination must be current; boosters needed every 1-3 years depending on the vaccine type.
Microchip Requirements
Pets must have an ISO-compliant microchip for identification.
Chip must be implanted before vaccination; verify number matches all documents.
Non-EU Countries
Pets from outside the region need additional quarantine or tests; contact Syrian embassy for specifics.
Import permit from the Ministry of Agriculture may be required in advance.
Restricted Breeds
Certain aggressive breeds like Pit Bulls may face restrictions or bans at entry points.
Always check with authorities; muzzles and leashes are recommended for larger dogs.
Other Pets
Birds and exotic animals require special permits from Syrian customs and veterinary services.
CITES documentation needed for endangered species; consult embassy for details.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Syria on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like dog beds and bowls.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Damascus & Aleppo): Mid-range hotels like Cham Palace welcome pets for 5,000-10,000 SYP/night fee, with access to nearby souks and parks. Local guesthouses often accommodate without extra charge.
- Coastal Guesthouses (Tartus & Latakia): Beachside accommodations frequently allow pets at no extra cost, with direct access to promenades. Ideal for relaxed stays with dogs.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Platforms like Airbnb offer pet-friendly homes in urban and rural areas, providing space for pets to move freely.
- Rural Homestays: Village stays in regions like the Orontes Valley welcome pets and offer cultural immersion with local families and animals.
- Campsites & Eco-Lodges: Sites near Palmyra and the Euphrates are pet-friendly, with open areas for dogs and proximity to historical trails.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: Upscale hotels in Damascus like the Four Seasons provide pet amenities including walking services and special menus.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
Desert Trails & Oases
Palmyra ruins and Euphrates Valley offer pet-friendly walking paths amid ancient sites.
Keep dogs leashed near archaeological areas and respect site guidelines.
Coastal Beaches
Tartus and Latakia beaches have sections for dogs, with Mediterranean waters for swimming.
Check local rules; off-season (Oct-Apr) is ideal for pet-friendly beach days.
Cities & Parks
Damascus' Al-Hamidiyah Souq and Umayyad Mosque gardens welcome leashed pets in outdoor areas.
Aleppo's Citadel park allows dogs; outdoor cafés often permit well-behaved animals.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Syrian tea houses and outdoor eateries commonly welcome pets, especially in souks.
Water bowls are provided; inquire before entering indoor spaces with animals.
Historical Walking Tours
Guided tours of old Damascus and Aleppo old towns allow leashed dogs in open areas.
Avoid indoor sites like museums; focus on street-level cultural exploration.
Castles & Ruins
Krak des Chevaliers and Apamea sites permit pets on grounds with leashes; entry fees 1,000-2,000 SYP.
Operators may require carriers for smaller animals during visits.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Buses (Microbuses): Small pets travel free in carriers; larger dogs may need space at back with leash. Common for inter-city travel like Damascus to Aleppo.
- Urban Taxis & Shared Taxis: Most accept pets with notice; fee around 500-1,000 SYP extra. Avoid peak hours in cities.
- Taxis: Private taxis welcome pets; negotiate fares upfront. Apps like Careem may offer pet options in major cities.
- Rental Cars: Local agencies allow pets with deposit (10,000-20,000 SYP); useful for rural sites like Palmyra.
- Flights to Syria: Check airline policies; Middle East carriers like Royal Jordanian allow cabin pets under 8kg. Book early and review requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Flydubai, Air Arabia, and Turkish Airlines accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for 20,000-50,000 SYP each way. Larger pets in hold with health certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
Veterinary clinics in Damascus (like Al-Shami Vet Center) offer 24-hour care; fees 5,000-15,000 SYP.
Carry international pet insurance; services available in major cities like Aleppo.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Local markets and pet shops in souks stock food and basics; chains like Pet Zone in Damascus.
Pharmacies carry common medications; bring prescriptions for specialized needs.
Grooming & Day Care
Grooming services in cities cost 3,000-8,000 SYP per session; limited daycare options.
Hotels can recommend local groomers; book in advance for coastal areas.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services in Damascus via word-of-mouth or apps; rates 5,000-10,000 SYP/day.
Guesthouses often provide informal sitting; consult hotel staff for reliable options.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in cities, souks, and historical sites. Rural areas may allow off-leash but keep control near livestock.
- Muzzle Requirements: Larger dogs may need muzzles in crowded areas or transport; carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Clean up after pets; bins available in parks. Fines up to 5,000 SYP for violations in urban zones.
- Beach & Water Rules: Designated pet areas on coasts; avoid swimming zones during summer. Respect local customs.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Pets at outdoor tables only; keep quiet and away from food. Ask permission first.
- Historical Sites: Leash required at ruins like Palmyra; no pets inside mosques or protected areas.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Syria
Syria for Families
Syria's ancient history and diverse landscapes captivate families, with interactive souks, coastal beaches, and cultural sites. Safe urban areas like Damascus offer family-oriented facilities, though travel requires caution and planning. Children enjoy storytelling at ruins and beach play.
Top Family Attractions
Umayyad Mosque (Damascus)
Iconic mosque with vast courtyards, mosaics, and kid-friendly architecture tours.
Entry 500 SYP adults, free for kids; open daily with family-guided audio options.
Aleppo Citadel
Imposing fortress with ramparts, museums, and panoramic views for adventurous kids.
Tickets 1,000 SYP adults, 500 SYP kids; explore tunnels and walls safely.
Krak des Chevaliers (Homs)
Crusader castle with towers, halls, and knight tales that thrill children.
Family tickets 2,000 SYP; guided tours include medieval history stories.
Norias of Hama
Giant wooden water wheels with riverside parks and picnic areas for families.
Free entry; boat rides 1,000 SYP, perfect for educational fun.
Palmyra Ruins
Ancient Roman city with columns, theater, and desert adventure for kids.
Tickets 1,500 SYP adults, 750 SYP kids; camel rides add excitement.
Tartus Beaches
Mediterranean shores with shallow waters, playgrounds, and family resorts.
Entry free; seasonal activities like sandcastle building and swimming.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Syria on Viator. From historical walks to coastal outings, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Damascus & Aleppo): Hotels like Dedeman offer family suites for 50,000-100,000 SYP/night with cribs and kids' areas.
- Coastal Resorts (Latakia): Beach hotels with pools, kids' clubs, and family rooms; rates 40,000-80,000 SYP including meals.
- Rural Homestays: Family-run guesthouses in Hama with animal interactions and play space; 20,000-40,000 SYP/night.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering units in cities with kitchens for family meals; flexible for longer stays.
- Budget Guesthouses: Affordable options in old towns for 15,000-30,000 SYP/night with shared family facilities.
- Historical Inns: Stay in restored caravanserais like Beit Wakil for cultural family experience with gardens.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Damascus with Kids
Souk explorations, Azem Palace museum, straight street walks, and park picnics.
Storytelling sessions and ice cream in old city make history fun for children.
Aleppo with Kids
Citadel climbs, souk treasure hunts, soap-making workshops, and river parks.
Family-friendly cultural shows and traditional sweets keep kids engaged.
Palmyra with Kids
Ruined city adventures, camel rides, theater acoustics play, and desert stargazing.
Guided tales of ancient queens spark imagination in young explorers.
Coastal Region (Tartus)
Beach days, Arwad Island boat trips, seafood picnics, and shallow water play.
Easy coastal paths and family boat rides with scenic views.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Buses: Children under 5 free; family discounts on microbuses (2,000-5,000 SYP/trip). Space for strollers limited.
- City Transport: Taxis and shared rides offer family fares (3,000-6,000 SYP/day). Cities like Damascus have some accessible options.
- Car Rentals: Child seats available (2,000-5,000 SYP/day); required for under 12. Useful for site-hopping.
- Stroller-Friendly: Souks and modern areas partially accessible; historical sites have steps but guides assist families.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Restaurants offer simple mezze, kebabs, or rice for 2,000-5,000 SYP. High chairs in tourist spots.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Outdoor eateries in souks with casual vibes and play space. Damascus markets have variety.
- Self-Catering: Local markets stock fresh fruits, yogurt, and bread. Supermarkets in cities for baby needs.
- Snacks & Treats: Baklava, halva, and fresh juices energize kids; available at street vendors.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Available in hotels and malls; basic facilities in tourist areas.
- Pharmacies: Stock diapers, formula, and meds; English-speaking staff in cities.
- Babysitting Services: Hotel-arranged sitters for 5,000-10,000 SYP/hour; local networks via concierge.
- Medical Care: Clinics in Damascus and Aleppo; international hospitals for emergencies. Travel insurance essential.
♿ Accessibility in Syria
Accessible Travel
Syria's accessibility varies, with modern hotels improving facilities but historical sites challenging. Urban areas offer some ramps and assistance; plan with local guides for barrier-free experiences.
Transportation Accessibility
- Buses: Limited accessibility; microbuses have steps but drivers assist. Private transfers recommended.
- City Transport: Taxis accommodate wheelchairs; some shared options in Damascus with space.
- Taxis: Wheelchair-friendly vehicles available via apps; standard taxis fit folding chairs.
- Airports: Damascus International provides assistance, ramps, and accessible facilities for arrivals.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Mosques: Umayyad Mosque has partial ramps; national museums offer guided access.
- Historic Sites: Krak des Chevaliers has some paths; souks partially navigable with help.
- Nature & Parks: Coastal promenades accessible; desert sites require 4x4 with modifications.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers and wide doors.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
October-April for mild weather and festivals; avoid hot summers (June-August).
Shoulder seasons offer comfortable temps (15-25°C) and fewer crowds at sites.
Budget Tips
Combo tickets for sites save 20-30%; local markets cheaper than tourist eateries.
Family homestays and picnics reduce costs while experiencing authentic culture.
Language
Arabic official; English in tourist areas and with guides.
Basic phrases appreciated; locals welcoming to families and visitors.
Packing Essentials
Light layers for variable weather, modest clothing for sites, sun protection.
Pet owners: carry food, leash, health docs, and tick prevention for rural areas.
Useful Apps
Google Translate for Arabic, Maps.me for offline navigation, local taxi apps.
Travel advisories and weather apps essential for safe planning.
Health & Safety
Monitor advisories; bottled water recommended. Pharmacies provide advice.
Emergency: dial 112; comprehensive insurance covers medical and evacuation.