Major Highways & Driving Tips in Damascus, Dimashq, Syria

1. Motorway M5

The main north-south highway connecting Damascus to Aleppo and other northern cities.

Length: Stretches over 300 kilometers, making it one of the longest highways in Syria.
Condition: Well-maintained with multiple lanes and rest areas along the route.
Tolls: No toll gates on this highway, making travel more affordable for visitors.

Connects Damascus to Homs and other central cities in Syria.

Length: Covers around 200 kilometers, serving as a vital connection between major cities.
Condition: Maintained with regular upgrades to ensure safe travel for drivers.
Scenery: Offers beautiful views of Syrian landscapes and countryside along the route.

Surrounds Damascus city, facilitating traffic flow within and around the capital.

Circumference: Around 120 kilometers in total length, encircling the entire city.
Importance: Crucial for easing traffic congestion within Damascus.
Speed Limits: Speed limits are strictly enforced to ensure safety on the road.

Connects Damascus to Daraa in southwest Syria.

Length: Spans approximately 250 kilometers, linking the capital to southern regions.
Condition: Maintained with regular repairs and upgrades for smooth travel.
Border Access: Leads to the border with Jordan, making it convenient for international travel.

Connects Damascus to Palmyra and Deir ez-Zor.

Length: Approximately 300 kilometers long, providing access to eastern Syria.
Condition: Maintained with regular repairs and upgrades, ensuring a comfortable drive.
Historical Sites: Passes through Palmyra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering cultural attractions along the way.

Connects Damascus to Hama and Idlib in western Syria.

Length: Covers around 200 kilometers, connecting the capital to important western cities.
Condition: Well-maintained with multiple lanes and regular upgrades for travel convenience.
Scenery: Offers scenic views of the Orontes River and other natural wonders along the route.

Connects Damascus to Tartous on the Mediterranean coast.

Length: Around 300 kilometers long, providing access to Syria's western coast.
Condition: Maintained with regular repairs and upgrades for comfortable travel.
Coastal Views: Offers beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea along the route.

Regulates traffic within Damascus city to minimize congestion and improve safety.

Parking Restrictions: Designated parking areas to prevent illegal parking and maintain traffic flow.
Road Closures: Temporary road closures during special events or maintenance work.
Speed Limits: Strictly enforced speed limits to ensure safety within the city.

Clear and easily understandable road signs throughout Damascus for easy navigation.

Language: Signs display both Arabic and English, making them easily recognizable to visitors.
Design: Modern design with bright colors for enhanced visibility during day and night.
Consistency: Standardized designs for all signs to ensure easy understanding by drivers.

Provides affordable and reliable car rental services for travelers.

Variety: Offers a wide range of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury models.
Cost: Competitive pricing for both short-term and long-term rentals.
Insurance: Includes comprehensive insurance coverage, giving travelers peace of mind on the road.

Reliable and easily accessible gas stations throughout Damascus.

Availability: Adequate number of gas stations to meet the needs of travelers.
Prices: Reasonable prices for both gasoline and diesel fuel.
Convenience: Offers additional services such as food, restrooms, and car maintenance.

Regulations designed to ensure the safety of drivers on Damascus's roads.

Seatbelts: Mandatory use of seatbelts for all vehicle occupants.
Helmets: Mandatory use of helmets for motorcycle riders and passengers.
Speed Limits: Strictly enforced speed limits in residential areas, schools, and other sensitive zones.

Safe and secure parking facilities for travelers within Damascus.

Availability: Adequate number of parking lots in popular tourist areas.
Security: 24/7 security and CCTV monitoring to ensure the safety of vehicles.
Cost: Affordable daily and hourly rates for short-term and long-term parking.

Toll roads throughout Damascus with electronic toll collection systems.

Toll Fees: Clear and easily understandable toll fees for travelers.
Payment Methods: Accepts both cash and electronic payment methods, such as prepaid cards or mobile apps.
Cameras: Uses automated cameras to record toll payments and prevent fraud.

Affordable and efficient public transportation options for travelers.

Routes: Serves popular tourist areas, residential neighborhoods, and key landmarks.
Cost: Inexpensive fares for both buses and minibuses.
Schedules: Regular schedules with multiple departures throughout the day.