Money and duty free for Syrian Arab Republic

Currency and Money

Currency information

Syrian Pound (SYP; symbol S£) = 100 piastres. Notes are in denominations of S£1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1. Coins are in denominations of S£50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1.

Credit cards

Due to the ongoing conflicts in Syria, there are financial restrictions. At present, credit cards are not widely accepted.

ATM

ATMs are available in Damascus and Aleppo, but they are not always reliable.

Travellers cheques

Not recommended.

Banking hours

Normally Sat-Thurs 0800-1400 (banks tend to close early on Thursdays).

Currency restrictions

Due to the ongoing conflicts in Syria, the currency restrictions are changing occasionally. Check with your nearest Syrian embassy before travelling.

Currency exchange

The Syrian pound cannot be exchanged outside the country. You must go to an official exchange in Syria and keep the official receipts. Before departure, you must present the exchange receipts to exchange Syrian pounds into foreign currency. Some additional restrictions may apply.

Syrian Arab Republic duty free

Overview

The following items may be imported into the Syrian Arab Republic without incurring customs duty:

• 200 cigarettes or 50 cigarillos or 25 cigars or 250g of tobacco.
• 30ml of perfume.
• 570ml of alcoholic beverages.
• 500ml of lotion and 500ml of eau de cologne.
• Gifts worth up to S£250.

Banned Imports

Firearms and ammunition. Birds (live, frozen, or stuffed) and any bird-derived products are also prohibited.