An interview with Khalaf Meshhadani, General Director of Meshhadani International Group for Conferences and Exhibitions and Vice President of the Arab Union’s Regional Office for Productive Families and Traditional Industries in Syria.
As Syria enters a pivotal post-liberation phase, efforts to rebuild and reintegrate into the regional economic system are gaining momentum. A key pillar of this recovery is the resurgence of trade exhibitions—now increasingly recognized as essential tools for attracting investment, stimulating the private sector, and laying the groundwork for national reconstruction.
In this interview with Levant 24 (L24), the businessman Khalaf Meshhadani shares his insights on the current state of Syria’s exhibitions sector and its vital role in economic revitalization.
L24: How would you assess the current status of the exhibitions and conferences sector in Syria?
Khalaf Meshhadani: “The sector is in urgent need of comprehensive rehabilitation—starting with the revitalization of the Damascus Fairgrounds and increased governmental support to attract major regional and international companies. Especially amid the current wave of regional openness, exhibitions can, if strategically harnessed, become a powerful economic lever for Syria.”
L24: Do you have a long-term vision for developing this sector?
Khalaf Meshhadani: “Absolutely. I believe it’s time to introduce a specialized academic track in exhibition management within university curricula. At Meshhadani Group, we’re ready to partner with universities to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical training. Developing specialized, professional teams is the cornerstone of sustainable sectoral growth.”
L24: What role do exhibitions play in Syria’s reconstruction process?
Khalaf Meshhadani: “Exhibitions serve as an initial window through which investors can observe Syria’s market realities and needs. Every Arab or foreign participant essentially becomes an ambassador—carrying an authentic image of Syria abroad. These platforms are key entry points for international partnerships and reconstruction opportunities.”
L24: You are also known for your support of small businesses and “productive families,” which are small family businesses typically operated from the home. How is this ethos reflected in your exhibitions?
Khalaf Meshhadani: “In every exhibition, we allocate free spaces to small business owners and productive families. Our aim is to empower them, enhance their market access, and integrate them into broader—potentially global—markets. These communities form the backbone of Syria’s socioeconomic fabric and deserve genuine growth opportunities.”
L24: How would you describe your relationship with government institutions during this transitional phase?
Khalaf Meshhadani: “We enjoy solid and effective cooperation with government institutions. This collaboration has been instrumental in creating an environment conducive to successful economic events, with a direct and tangible impact on the national economy—especially during such a sensitive period.”
L24: How do you view the recent lifting of economic sanctions on Syria?
Khalaf Meshhadani: “The lifting of sanctions marks a pivotal turning point—it’s the green light for an economic takeoff that Syrians have long awaited. It opens doors for foreign investments and helps rebuild international trust in the Syrian market. Syrians are ready to rebuild; now is the time to seize this opportunity and expand regional and global partnerships.
“At Meshhadani International Group, we’ve already begun translating this momentum into action. We recently visited the Sultanate of Oman and participated in the Oil and Gas Exhibition in Muscat, where we met with representatives of international energy companies. Their interest in Syria’s market and willingness to contribute to its reconstruction is a strong indicator of renewed confidence in our economic potential.”
L24: What can we expect from Meshhadani International Group in 2025?
Khalaf Meshhadani: “Since our founding in 2006, we’ve remained committed to our motto: ‘The Definite Choice for Those Seeking More.’ We are focused on building professional teams and expanding our regional and international reach. In 2025, we plan to launch a series of specialized, high-impact exhibitions tailored to the evolving needs of Syria’s industrial and commercial sectors.”
L24: What message would you like to address to Syrian investors and entrepreneurs abroad?
Khalaf Meshhadani: “Today, more than ever, Syria offers reasons worth living for. I call on all Syrians abroad—especially entrepreneurs, investors, and industrialists—to return and take part in rebuilding their homeland. Syria is once again becoming a destination for investors, traders, and even tourists. Now is the time to act.”
