Qatar Airways has declared it will recommence commercial air service to Damascus, Syria, starting from January 7.

The airline will provide three weekly connections from its Doha hub to the Syrian capital, linking passengers to over 170 destinations worldwide.

The airline is ensuring all safety, security, and operational protocols are in place before the flights resume, according to a statement from Qatar Airways. CEO Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer emphasized the significance of this route, describing Damascus as a destination rich in history and culture, and highlighted the airline's commitment to regional connectivity and meeting travel demand.

This development follows the recent reactivation of Damascus International Airport, which was shut down due to the civil war and damage inflicted during the conflict that led to the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad. The airport saw its first commercial flight since Assad's removal in early December, operated by Syrian Air, signaling a tentative return to normalcy.

The airport, however, remains under repair from extensive war damage, particularly from Israeli airstrikes, with recovery efforts ongoing.

As Syria navigates this new chapter under the leadership of Ahmed Al-Sharaa's interim government, there's a push towards re-establishing international connections. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shibani has announced initiatives to ease the return of expatriates, including extending passport validity for Syrians living abroad and lowering renewal fees, addressing the bureaucratic inefficiencies and corruption of the past.

The interim government is also focusing on enhancing consular services to better serve the Syrian diaspora, many of whom fled during the Assad regime's crackdown. The return of these expatriates has been cautious due to ongoing political and economic uncertainties, but these new measures aim to facilitate their homecoming and reconnect Syria with its global community. (ILKHA)