Syria Participates in the 42nd Session of the Council of Arab Ministers of Housing and Construction in Qatar

The Ministry of Public Works and Housing, represented by Minister Eng. Mustafa Abdul Razzaq, participated in the 42nd session of the Council of Arab Ministers of Housing and Construction held in Doha, Qatar, aiming to enhance Arab cooperation in housing and urban development.‍

Syria's Speech at the Council: In his speech, the Minister stated that Syria has faced massive damage in recent years, especially in the housing sector, with over 30% of the housing stock damaged (approx. 1.3 million units). He noted this coincided with the internal displacement of 7 million citizens and 5 million refugees, imposing a responsibility to secure the right of return and decent housing. The housing deficit is currently estimated at 1.9 million units, expected to reach 2.6 million by 2030. He explained that the government launched the National Housing Strategy covering: immediate response for returnee areas, short-term recovery, restructuring the construction sector, and activating stalled social housing. He invited Arab companies to participate in housing projects, highlighting the attractive investment environment due to new legislation.

‍Official Visits and Meetings: The Minister visited Qatari Diar and met its CEO, Sheikh Hamad bin Talal Al Thani, to discuss real estate cooperation. He visited Qatar's Public Works Authority (Ashghal) and met its President, Eng. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al Meer, to discuss forming joint technical committees. He also met the Minister of Social Development and Family, Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi, and the Minister of Municipality, Dr. Abdullah bin Hamad Al Attiyah, to expand cooperation in urban planning and social housing. The delegation toured Lusail Smart City to observe its AI-driven systems and visited Barwa Residential City. Internationally, the Minister met the Regional Director of UN-Habitat to discuss technical and financial support for the Syrian context