Turkey to Reopen Historic Land Trade Corridor to Jordan and GCC Through Syria by 2026: What You Need to Know

Published on November 10, 2025

Turkey, Jordan, and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are preparing to revive a historic land trade corridor that traverses Syria and reconnects regional economies, with full operational status expected by 2026. The corridor, closed for over a decade due to conflict and damaged infrastructure in Syria, is set to become a vital transport artery stretching from Turkey through Jordan to the GCC, potentially reshaping tourism flows and regional trade integration across the Middle East.

Revival of a Strategic Transport and Tourism Corridor

The reopening announcement follows a series of coordinated diplomatic and infrastructure efforts aimed at rehabilitating the route and addressing logistical challenges. Key to this revival is the restoration of roadways inside Syria and streamlining of border and customs procedures, enabling Turkish trucks to cross seamlessly into Jordan and beyond to Gulf countries. This effort promises to restore the pre-2011 commercial vibrancy along the corridor, which included tens of thousands of trucks moving goods annually, deeply tied to tourism supply chains and regional economic activities.

Regional Cooperation and Economic Integration

The initiative was highlighted during the Jordanian-Turkish Joint Economic Committee meeting in Amman, emphasizing the corridor’s role as a vital Eurasian logistics link connecting Europe with the Arabian Peninsula. The resumption reflects broader regional cooperation that also involves Syria, with trilateral technical sessions aimed at unifying transit regulations, simplifying customs fees, and harmonizing passenger and cargo movements. This facilitates not only trade but also tourism by improving cross-border mobility and accessibility.

Infrastructure Rehabilitation and Administrative Challenges

While progress has been made, several challenges remain. Rehabilitation of Syrian road networks, administrative hurdles such as visa formalities and Syrian customs protocols are being actively resolved to ensure the corridor functions efficiently. Turkish trucks have already started transit under the new road transport agreement signed earlier in 2025, signaling growing confidence in the route’s viability and its importance for tourism logistics and economic exchange.

Hejaz Railway Restoration: A Complementary Transport Link

Alongside road developments, Turkey and Jordan are pursuing plans to restore the historic Hejaz Railway, linking Damascus to Medina. This Ottoman-era railway, once a pilgrimage route, is envisioned to serve both passenger and freight transport, expanding regional connectivity in a sustainable manner. The railway’s revival will complement the road corridor, offering integrated multimodal transport solutions that stimulate tourism by reviving pilgrimage routes and connecting heritage sites.

Strategic Benefits for Tourism and Trade

By restoring this corridor, Turkey aims to consolidate its position as a major regional transport hub, linking the Middle East to Europe and Asia. The reopening is expected to revitalize tourism flows by enhancing ease of access across borders, attracting visitors to historic and cultural sites while supporting the flow of goods critical to tourism infrastructure. Improved logistics are also set to lower costs and reduce delivery times, indirectly boosting tourism-related businesses and investment opportunities.

Economic Recovery and Stability Through Integration

The corridor’s reopening represents a landmark step in regional economic recovery, particularly for areas affected by prolonged conflict. Strengthened transport links enable reconstruction and development in Syria and neighboring countries by integrating these economies into larger trade and tourism networks. Enhanced interdependence encourages political stability, creates jobs, and stimulates sectors that rely on efficient transport systems.

Government Partnerships and Future Outlook

Memorandums of understanding signed between Turkey and Jordan extend cooperation into trade, industry, agriculture, tourism, and culture. Preparations for higher-level summit meetings aim to solidify commitments and accelerate bilateral and trilateral projects. The ambitious plan includes studies for new railway extensions connecting capitals and upgrading key border crossings such as Nasib–Jaber and Bab Al Hawa, fostering smoother land transit.

Tourism Impact in Broader Middle East Context

The corridor enhances regional tourism by linking major urban centers, religious destinations, and natural attractions across Turkey, Syria, Jordan, and GCC countries. It provides tourists with expanded options for overland travel and cultural exploration, encouraging longer stays and increased spending. Tourism businesses along the corridor stand to benefit from revived trade and passenger traffic, reinforcing the corridor as a spine for regional tourism development.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

While infrastructure restoration and administrative harmonization are ongoing, political sensitivities remain given the complex regional dynamics involving Syria. The success of this corridor depends on sustained cooperation among all involved states and stakeholders. Nonetheless, the initiative is a significant gesture toward peace-building and economic collaboration through improved connectivity.

A New Chapter for Regional Tourism and Trade

The scheduled reopening of the Turkey-Jordan-GCC land trade corridor through Syria by 2026 signals a transformative moment for Middle Eastern regional integration. By restoring this historic route, the involved countries are laying the foundation for enhanced tourism, economic growth, and stability. The corridor is poised to become a critical artery for commerce and travel, fostering interconnectedness across diverse markets and cultures.