Syrian President Ahmad Al-Sharaa outlines vision for Syria’s future at Arab Media Summit 2026

Dubai: His Excellency Ahmad Al-Sharaa, President of the Syrian Arab Republic, outlined his vision for Syria’s future and prospects for regional stability and development during the opening session of the Arab Media Summit 2026 in Dubai today. Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the opening was attended by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council. The session was also attended by Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority; His Excellency Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi, Secretary General of the Gulf Cooperation Council; His Excellency Asaad Al-Shaibani, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the Syrian Arab Republic; and Her Excellency Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council and Chairperson of the Arab Media Summit Organising Committee, along with ministers, senior officials, leaders of UAE and international media organisations, and media professionals from the UAE and abroad. During the session, President Al-Sharaa highlighted the deep fraternal ties between the UAE and Syria. He said Syria is currently going through a transitional phase with its own unique circumstances, as the state works to rebuild trust and restore its institutions and their functions despite significant challenges. He said Syria, once portrayed by international media and political circles as a major problem, has now become a significant opportunity for all, as it resumes a positive role in supporting regional and international stability and strategic security. President Al-Sharaa said the stability Syria is currently experiencing has helped attract investment, particularly from the UAE. He highlighted DP World’s investment in the Port of Tartus and its connection with Jebel Ali Port in Dubai as an example of the growing opportunities Syria offers investors, particularly given the country’s strategic location and its importance to regional trade corridors. He said further discussions are underway on additional UAE investments in Syria, while there is also significant Gulf and European interest in opportunities in the country. Stability today, he stressed, serves not only Syria but the entire region and advances the shared interests of all. Stability today, President Al-Sharaa stressed, serves not only Syria but the entire region and advances the shared interests of all. Picture credit: Dubai Media Office During the conversation, moderated by media personality Ammar Taqi, President Al-Sharaa noted that Syria had been one of the world’s most heavily sanctioned countries. He described Syria as having been “born again” following US President Donald Trump’s historic decision to lift sanctions, saying the move broke the constraints that had held the country back and opened the way for Syria to begin its journey of development. He said progress would now depend on choosing the right policies and making the right decisions to steer Syria safely through the transition. President Al-Sharaa said Syria’s transition towards a free-market economy and greater support for the private sector could involve decisions that require patience. Over time, however, he said the positive effects of change would become increasingly evident. He noted that Syria’s economy, which had once been valued at around $60 billion, had fallen to approximately $20 billion before the new administration assumed responsibility. It reached $32 billion in 2025 and is expected to grow to $50 billion in 2027, potentially returning to levels seen in 2010. He expressed optimism that the economy could reach $200 billion by the end of the next decade if stability prevails across the region and the world. President Al-Sharaa also highlighted Syria’s potential as an important source of food for the region and beyond. He said that even without modern agricultural technologies, the country has the capacity to produce enough food for around 70 million to 75 million people. With modern agricultural capabilities, that capacity could rise to more than 100 million people, making Syria an important contributor to regional food security. Addressing Syria’s relations with its regional and international partners, President Al-Sharaa said the country remains committed to its international obligations and promises only what it is capable of delivering. He said clarity and transparency in its actions have helped generate greater interest in Syria and strengthen confidence in the country. Addressing Syria’s relations with its regional and international partners, President Al-Sharaa said the country remains committed to its international obligations and promises only what it is capable of delivering. Picture credit: Dubai Media Office He added that Syria does not need to be dependent on an