Syrian Arab Republic (Syria)

Is a independent political entity in the continent of Asia.

Its center lies at a latitude of 35 and longitude of 38.

Syrian Arab Republic also goes by the names, Al Iqlim as Suri, Al Iqlim ash Shamali, Al Iqlīm as Sūrī, Al Iqlīm ash Shamālī, Al Jumhuriyah al `Arabiyah as Suriyah, Al Jumhūrīyah al ‘Arabīyah as Sūrīyah, Al-Sham, Al-Suriyah, An tSiria, Aram, A

The prodominant languages spoken are ar-SY (Arabic) syr (Syriac) and its currency is the Pound (SYP),

Syrian Arab Republic currently has a population of 22198100 (estimate).

Syrian Arab Republic's neighbouring countries are, Israel, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey, .

Regions within Syrian Arab Republic

Largest Cities within Syrian Arab Republic

Travel Advice Summary from British Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO)

Country: Syria

Published: Mon, 14 May 2012 14:45:00 GMT

Travel Summary

On 1 March 2012, the Foreign Secretary announced his decision to withdraw all remaining UK diplomatic staff from Syria and suspend the services of the British Embassy in Damascus with immediate effect. This decision was based on the deteriorating security situation in country.

We advise against all travel to the Syrian Arab Republic. British nationals in Syria should leave now by commercial means whilst these are still available. Those who choose to remain in Syria or to visit against our very clear advice should be aware that we are not able to provide normal consular services nor are we able to organise or assist your evacuation from the country. If, despite our advice to leave now, you choose to travel to Syria, or stay there, make sure you and your family have a valid exit stamp on your travel documents if you need one.

The Hungarian Embassy has assumed the role of Protecting Power for British interests in Syria. British nationals requiring urgent consular assistance should therefore contact the Hungarian Embassy in Damascus. See Entry Requirements and General - Consular Services.

There is a high threat from terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by Westerners, including British nationals. There have been a number of explosions in Syria since December 2011, which have killed and injured people. On 10 May there were explosions in Qazzaz, a southern suburb of Damascus, reportedly killing at least fifty and injuring over 300. Public places, hotels or restaurants could be targeted.

There are continued violent attacks across the country, including Damascus and its suburbs. Military operations and clashes between protestors and security forces have resulted in a significant number of deaths and injuries. There have also been a number of attacks on regime-affiliated targets in different parts of the country using gunfire, rocket-propelled grenades and improvised explosive devices. If you remain in Syria against our advice, you should remain vigilant, avoid crowds, and assess the security situation before travelling anywhere in Syria.

It is likely that road networks may be blocked during disturbances or demonstrations. Several major highways including Tartous-Latakia, Tartous-Homs, Latakia-Aleppo, Homs-Hama, Homs-Damascus and Damascus-Jordan have been temporarily closed because of demonstrations or disturbances. There has also been an increase in the number of security force checkpoints on major road routes. There is an increased likelihood of large gatherings on public holidays and at weekends, particularly in the hours following Friday prayers.

Disturbances and road closures have affected access to some land border crossing points. This can happen at short notice, and it may not be possible to guarantee security along the route. You should check the status of the border crossing and access routes, including those into Turkey, before travelling. The main Nasib/Jaber border crossing with Jordan is currently open, but at times it has also been affected, with limited access due to numerous road blocks along the route. You should avoid the Ar Ramtha border crossing to Jordan and the Tal Kalakh/Hdaideh crossing in to north-east Lebanon.. You should not attempt to enter Iraq via the Syrian border, which is subject to restrictions on both sides.

You should be aware that there are reports of kidnappings. On 28 April, two Hungarian nationals were kidnapped in South-East Syria. You should be aware that the long-standing policy of the British Government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British Government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage-taking.

As a result of the ongoing political and security instability, certain financial transactions have become more difficult. There have been reports that service providers outside Syria are refusing to accept payment using a Syrian-issued credit or debit card; all Dollar payments and Dollar bank accounts in Syria have effectively been frozen; it has become very difficult to withdraw Dollars and Euros, and most cash withdrawals are limited to Syrian pounds. See General â Money.

If despite our advice you decide to travel to Syria, you should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. See General - Insurance.

15 May is âNakba Dayâ. We advise those travelling to the Israeli border area with Syria to be extra vigilant during this time. You should avoid any political gatherings and/or demonstrations.