Syria’s recently introduced Interim President, Ahmed al-Sharaa, arrived in Riyadh on February 2 for his first official visit, official Syrian media reported.

Al-Sharaa’s visit to Saudi Arabia holds significant regional implications. It marks Syria’s reintegration into Arab relations after years of strained ties between Damascus and Arab capitals and potentially huge investment badly needed in the country from Riyadh. The visit by the new Syrian leader is his first international trip after several regional neighbours and foreign countries met with him in Damascus. 

Al-Sharaa was received at King Khaled International Airport by the Deputy Emir of the Riyadh region, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman. Then, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman welcomed al-Sharaa and his accompanying delegation at Al-Yamamah Palace in Riyadh.

During his visit, the two leaders discussed developments in Syria, plans to ensure security and stability, and prospects for strengthening ties between Damascus and Arab capitals, Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA) reported.

"The arrival of His Excellency the President of the Syrian Arab Republic, Mr Ahmed Al-Shara, and his accompanying delegation to Al-Yamamah Palace in the capital, Riyadh, to meet with the Saudi Crown Prince, Prince Mohammed bin Salman," the official channel of the Syrian president wrote under release of images. 

A Saudi aircraft transported al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Asaad Al-Shaibani from Damascus to Riyadh, marking the President's first foreign trip since taking office. Choosing Riyadh as his first destination stresses the significance of Saudi-Syrian relations.

Earlier, Syrian Presidency shared a photo on "X" showing al-Sharaa and al-Shaibani seated aboard what appears to be a private jet. The post was captioned: "President Ahmed al-Sharaa and Foreign Minister Asaad al-Shaibani are heading to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia today for their first official visit."

Earlier, Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its commitment to support Syria’s recovery. During Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan visit to Syria, he reiterated Riyadh’s support for Syria’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity.

Bin Farhan and al-Sharaa discussed ways to bolster Syria’s security, stability and unity, as well as political, humanitarian and economic support—particularly efforts to lift sanctions. 

The Saudi foreign minister stated that Riyadh is engaged in dialogue with relevant countries to ease sanctions on Syria, highlighting the need to accelerate the process. He also noted that Saudi Arabia has received positive indications regarding the potential lifting of sanctions.