Syria Resumes Saudi Flights After 12 Years of Suspension

In a significant step towards normalization, Syria has resumed regular flights to Saudi Arabia after a 12-year hiatus, marking a milestone in the slow rapprochement between the two nations.

Summarized Insights:

• Syria resumes flights to Saudi Arabia.

• First flight arrives in Riyadh.

• One round-trip flight per week.

• Potential expansion to Jeddah, Dammam.

• Slow but steady rapprochement.

On Wednesday, Syria's national airline resumed its regular services to Saudi Arabia, ending a 12-year suspension. 

This momentous occasion was marked by the arrival of a Syrian Airlines flight carrying 170 passengers in Riyadh, as confirmed by both Syrian Airlines and Syria's ambassador to Saudi Arabia.

The resumption of this flight route comes as part of the ongoing efforts to restore diplomatic relations between Syria and Saudi Arabia, which had been severed since 2012. 

The suspension was initially prompted by Saudi Arabia's decision to cut ties with Damascus in response to President Bashar al-Assad's severe crackdown on anti-government protesters at the onset of Syria's civil war.

Ambassador Ayman Soussan highlighted the importance of this development, noting that the two countries have agreed to operate one round-trip flight per week between Riyadh and Damascus. 

This move is seen as a critical step in re-establishing regular connections and fostering better relations between the two nations.

Syrian transport ministry official Suleiman Khalil added that the direct flight route between Riyadh and Damascus could potentially expand to include other major Saudi cities such as Jeddah and Dammam, depending on passenger demand. 

This expansion would further solidify the growing ties and increase accessibility between the two countries.

The resumption of flights is not entirely new, as temporary services had been reinstated in May to accommodate pilgrims participating in the annual Muslim hajj pilgrimage to Mecca and Medina. 

However, the regular weekly flights signify a more permanent and structured effort to reconnect the two nations.

The process of rapprochement has been gradual. While Saudi Arabia has played a key role in advocating for the restoration of ties with Assad, progress has been slow. 

The naming of a new Saudi ambassador to Damascus in May, over a year after relations were re-established, is a testament to the cautious approach both countries are taking.

In May 2023, a significant diplomatic milestone was achieved when Syrian President Bashar al-Assad attended his first Arab summit in 13 years, held in Saudi Arabia. 

This event marked Syria's return to the regional fold and underscored the mending ties with Riyadh.

The re-establishment of flights between Syria and Saudi Arabia is more than just a logistical development; it represents a symbolic and practical advancement in the normalization of relations. 

As both nations continue to rebuild diplomatic and economic connections, this resumption of air travel is a hopeful indicator of further cooperation and stability in the region.

The gradual but steady efforts to mend ties and restore regular interactions reflect a broader regional trend towards reconciliation and rebuilding. 

For Syria, the resumption of flights to Saudi Arabia is a significant step towards regaining its position within the Arab world and re-establishing itself as a connected and cooperative member of the international community.