Souks (markets) are the best places for shopping, notably those in Aleppo. Local
handicrafts in the Syrian Arab Republic are numerous and precious, including
mother-of-pearl items (such as backgammon boards),
olive-wood carvings, weaving and embroidery, leather goods and gold and silver
jewelry.
Shopping hoursSat-Thurs 0930-1400 and 1630-2200 (summer); Sat-Thurs 0930-1400 and 1600-2000 (winter).
Currency Information:CurrencySyrian Pound (SYP; symbol S£) = 100
piastres. Notes are in denominations of S£1,000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1. Coins are in denominations of S£25, 10, 5, 2 and 1.
Currency ExchangeSyrian currency cannot generally be reconverted to hard currency. The country’s banking system is state-owned, and there is at least one branch of the Commercial Bank of Syria in every main town. Hard currency can be exchanged for local currency in these branches.
Credit/Debit Cards and ATMsAmerican Express and Diners Club are most readily accepted; some hotels will accept MasterCard. Tickets may be bought with credit cards.
Traveller's ChequesCan be difficult to exchange and are not generally recommended.
Currency RestrictionsRestrictions apply.
Banking HoursNormally Sat-Thurs 0800-1400 (banks tend to close early on Thursdays).
Exchange Rate Indicators| Date | Jan 09 |
| £1.00= | S£71.34 |
| $1.00= | S£47.26 |
| €1.00= | S£64.67 |
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