Homs Summer Tourism Surges 40% as Overnight Visitors Reach 26,494

Overnight visitor numbers at tourism accommodation facilities in Homs province rose 40 percent during the summer season compared with last year, driven by robust demand in the western countryside, according to Syria’s tourism director, Nizar Al-Taweel. The province recorded 26,494 overnight visitors, while the historic Krak des Chevaliers received 23,285 visitors. Dining establishments reported near-full occupancy during peak periods, particularly in the Wadi Al-Nasara region during religious holidays in August.

Homs currently hosts 201 operating tourism establishments, including 181 restaurants and 20 accommodation facilities. Eight new establishments opened this year, with two additional projects awaiting licensing. The surge in tourism activity in the western countryside provided 1,450 jobs during the season, while a total of 2,567 people are employed across the province’s tourism establishments.

Despite the growth, Al-Taweel highlighted key challenges, including high operating costs, declining purchasing power among domestic tourists, inadequate infrastructure and supporting services, and the highly seasonal nature of tourism. During the season, tourism authorities conducted 144 inspection tours of establishments to ensure standards.

Businesses in the Wadi Al-Nasara region reported strong demand, with a resort in Marmarita planning an expansion following a highly successful season. Jamil Sallat, a hotel executive, noted that while tourism activity has improved, businesses continue to face significant operational hurdles, including difficulties securing fuel, disposing of waste, and obtaining permits for artistic events.

The tourism directorate plans to propose new sites for investment in Homs city, the western countryside, and Palmyra, while actively developing entertainment and adventure tourism. Additional proposals include the restoration of the Homs Citadel, the creation of a cultural tourism route linking it with traditional markets and old neighborhoods, and the establishment of a center for local handicrafts. Recent major investment projects in the region include Avenue Homs, Victory Park and Boulevard, and Al-Salam Mall.

Source link