Car Rental Syria 2026: Complete Guide for Dutch Travelers
Everything Dutch travelers need to know about renting a car in Syria in 2026 — required documents, prices starting at $40/day, pickup locations, fleet choices, and the best destinations.
Why Rent a Car in Syria?
Syria rewards travellers who venture off the main tourist trail, and the best way to do that is with your own rental car. Whether you want to wander the ancient lanes of Damascus Old City, drive the Mediterranean coastal road to Latakia, explore the desert ruins of Palmyra, or day-trip to the Crusader castle of Krak des Chevaliers — a car gives you the freedom to do it all on your own schedule.
ShomoX is Syria's trusted car rental provider, offering a modern fleet, transparent pricing, and 24/7 customer support in English and Arabic.
Documents Required for Car Rental in Syria
To rent a car in Syria you will need:
- Valid passport (at least 6 months remaining validity)
- International Driving Permit (IDP) — strongly recommended for non-Arab-country licence holders
- Credit card or cash for the security deposit
- Minimum age: 21 years
Dutch driving licences are recognised, but carrying an IDP alongside is always advisable.
Our Fleet
ShomoX offers vehicles for every type of trip:
| Category | Models | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | Hyundai Elantra, Kia Rio | City driving in Damascus & Aleppo |
| Family SUV | Kia Seltos, Mitsubishi Outlander | Coastal drives & mountain routes |
| Luxury | Mercedes-Benz, GMC Denali | Business & VIP travel |
All cars come with air conditioning and are regularly serviced. Child seats are available on request.
Pickup & Delivery Locations
- Damascus International Airport — 24/7 availability
- Damascus city centre (Mezzeh district) — by appointment
- Aleppo, Latakia, Homs, Hama — on request
We also offer free hotel delivery within Damascus — your car will be waiting at your hotel when you arrive.
Rental Prices
Rates start from USD 40 per day for economy cars, including third-party insurance and unlimited kilometres. No hidden charges.
Payment options: US Dollars, Syrian Pounds, or major international credit cards.
Top Destinations to Visit by Car
Damascus — 3,000 Years of History
The Old City of Damascus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don't miss the Umayyad Mosque, the Al-Hamidiyya Souq, the Azm Palace, and the Straight Street (Via Recta). Allow at least two full days to explore properly.
Palmyra (Tadmor) — Desert Roman Ruins
Approximately 3 hours from Damascus, Palmyra is one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in the Middle East. The Roman colonnaded street, the Temple of Bel, and the funerary towers rise dramatically from the Syrian desert. Visit at sunrise or sunset for the best photographs.
Krak des Chevaliers — The Greatest Crusader Castle
Rated by Lawrence of Arabia as "perhaps the best preserved and most admirable castle in the world," Krak des Chevaliers sits on a hilltop in western Syria, about 3 hours from Damascus. The views are extraordinary and the medieval fortifications are remarkably intact.
Latakia & the Syrian Coast
Syria's Mediterranean coast offers turquoise waters, seafood restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere. Latakia is about 4 hours from Damascus. Combine with a visit to the nearby beach resort of Wadi Qandil or the mountain village of Slunfeh.
Aleppo — The Ancient Trading Capital
Aleppo's Citadel, the UNESCO-listed old souks, and the Armenian quarter of Jdeideh make this city a highlight of any Syria trip. It is approximately 4 hours from Damascus by the M5 motorway.
Driving Tips for Syria
- Fill up the tank before long journeys — petrol stations exist on main roads but can be infrequent in rural areas
- Keep your passport and rental documents with you at all times
- Damascus rush hours are 8:00–10:00 and 16:00–19:00; plan accordingly
- Main highways between major cities are in good condition
- Speed limits: 50 km/h in cities, 90–110 km/h on motorways
Insurance & Assistance
Every rental includes third-party liability insurance as standard. Comprehensive cover (all-risks) is available at a small daily supplement. Our 24/7 roadside assistance covers the entire country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit Syria? Most European nationals require a visa. Check with the Syrian embassy in The Hague or your nearest Syrian consulate before travelling.
Is driving in Syria difficult? The main roads are well-signposted (in Arabic and often English). City driving requires attention but is manageable. International traffic rules largely apply.
Can I do a one-way rental (Damascus → Aleppo)? Yes — subject to a one-way fee. Contact us for a quote.
Book Your Syria Rental Car
Book online at ShomoX.com or contact our team directly. We provide quotes in English and can arrange pickup to fit your flight schedule.