Saudi Arabia is quietly reshaping Syria’s future through massive economic investment.
While much of the region’s focus remains on Iran and Gaza, Riyadh is executing what can only be described as a silent economic takeover of Syria. Instead of tanks and militias, the Saudis are deploying capital — and lots of it.
So far, $6.4 billion has reportedly been pledged for infrastructure, telecommunications and tourism projects. An additional $16 billion package is said to be in preparation, targeting the rehabilitation of airports — including Aleppo — the creation of a joint airline venture, and the digital transformation of Syria’s financial sector.
The effort is being coordinated through a dedicated Saudi investment vehicle known as the Ilaf Fund, created specifically to manage Syrian-focused investments.