In a strategic move to enhance the readiness of Syria’s tourism sector for the next phase of development, the Ministry of Tourism signed a technical cooperation agreement with the Saudi Elm Company at its headquarters in Damascus.
The agreement focuses on smart archiving, records management and the development of advanced data systems aimed at modernizing the ministry’s information infrastructure and strengthening institutional governance.
Under the partnership, Elm will establish advanced regulatory frameworks for document and records management, including modern indexing and archiving systems designed to accelerate procedures, enhance transparency and regulate information flow. Officials say the initiative will support evidence-based decision-making and improve the quality of services provided to the tourism sector.
Driving Digital Transformation
Minister of Tourism Mazen al-Salhani stated that the ministry is not merely keeping pace with digital transformation but intends to lead it within the sector. He described the cooperation with Elm as a strategic step expanding digital transformation across Syrian tourism and achieving qualitative leaps in institutional innovation, while adhering strictly to governance and data management standards.
“Digital transformation must originate from within government institutions themselves,” Salhani said. “We are working to position the ministry as a model of sound digital governance, enabling the public sector to lead modernization efforts with the highest standards of efficiency and transparency.”
Partnership and Transfer of Expertise
Elm CEO Muhammad al-Omair said the partnership builds on Saudi Arabia’s extensive experience in government digital transformation, which has resulted in integrated digital systems significantly enhancing efficiency, transparency and service quality.
He explained this expertise is rooted in governance reform, procedural re-engineering and data management aligned with global best practices, will now be transferred to Syria’s tourism sector. The initiative is expected to accelerate institutional transformation and foster a modern operational environment capable of attracting investment and improving the visitor experience.
A Pivotal Step Toward Institutional Reform
The agreement marks the beginning of a comprehensive effort to overhaul the digital infrastructure of Syria’s tourism sector. Beyond system upgrades, the partnership emphasizes re-engineering workflows and automating procedures creating a robust digital ecosystem aligned with international standards.
Officials say the initiative aims to strengthen investor confidence, elevate service quality and build a more efficient, competitive and sustainable tourism sector. It forms part of a broader series of ministry-led reforms focused on improving governance frameworks and creating an administrative environment conducive to long-term growth.
