From the earliest days following the fall of the Assad regime and the rise of Ahmed al-Sharaa to power in Damascus, it was clear that Saudi Arabia had firmly decided to back the new Syria. But it did so knowing that the opportunity ahead was way bigger than just Syria—it was a rare chance for the entire region.
Today, Syria—once the largest hub for drug production, the world's leading source of refugees, and a corridor for Iranian arms and militias destabilising its neighbours—is now focused on stability and development. To this end, Syria's new leaders are forging relations with regional and global states to help achieve these aims.
This cooperation was on display when Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa attended the Future Investment Initiative in Riyadh last week. In a sign of brotherhood and solidarity, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman made it a point to attend the session al-Sharaa participated in.
This show of support demonstrates just how important the relationship between Saudi Arabia and Syria is—and will continue to be. Their shared vision for regional stability represents a pivotal step towards broader economic development.
Saudi Arabia has consistently expressed support for Syria’s unity, stability, and security and played a key role in advocating for US sanctions to be lifted on Syria. For his part, President al-Sharaa has repeatedly emphasised that his foremost priorities are also Syria’s unity, stability, and prosperity, and has vowed to resolve all disputes and crises involving Syria, the region, and the wider international community.
