DAMASCUS, Syria – Syria’s state-run news agency says Damascus is easing entry visa restrictions to Iraqi tourists after 17 months of strict regulations that barred most from entering.
SANA says the Syrian Immigration Department’s new regulations require tourists to be part of a group and enter the country only through Damascus International Airport.
SANA’s report on Wednesday also says tourists should have a return ticket, at least $1,000 in cash, and should leave their passports at the tourist office after arrival.
The Syrian move comes after the improvement of security conditions in Iraq and amid an international financial crisis that makes Syria in need for tourists and money.
Syria has about 1.5 million Iraqi refugees.
