Money
Last updated: Checked by: المدير
Currency, exchange, cash and cards.
The new pound
Since 1 January 2026 Syria uses a new pound: 1 new pound = 100 old pounds. Dual circulation has ended and old notes are no longer accepted.
Cash first
Foreign bank cards generally don't work and ATMs are not usable with visitors' cards. Bring all the cash you need; US dollars are the easiest to exchange.
Exchanging
Use licensed exchange offices or banks. The official rate is published by the Central Bank of Syria.
At the border
Under a Central Bank circular (July 2026), travellers may not carry more than 20,000 new Syrian pounds in or out. Large foreign-currency amounts must be declared on entry.
Tip
Split your cash across several places and keep small notes for transport and food.
We don't list prices because they change quickly.
Other sources
- https://english.enabbaladi.net/archives/2026/07/how-much-syrian-currency-can-travelers-carry/amp/
- https://www.saigatours.com/article/the-syrian-pound-in-2026-new-banknotes-and-rate
Official source: cb.gov.sy