Syria's Ministry of Transport Announces $200 Million World Bank Grant for Railway Infrastructure

Syria's Ministry of Transport announced on Monday, April 20, 2026, that approximately $200 million has been allocated through a World Bank grant to finance a series of railway infrastructure projects, marking a significant step toward accelerating the country's economic recovery and modernizing its national transport network.

Ali Asbar, Director of Land Transport Affairs at the ministry, stated that the funds will be directed toward upgrading railway infrastructure, procuring new locomotives and equipment, maintaining existing rolling stock, and building the technical capacity of personnel at both the ministry and the General Establishment for Railways.

Asbar noted that connecting production areas with industrial centers stands as a top ministerial priority, with the aim of reducing transport costs and strengthening economic competitiveness. He added that preparatory studies are underway to activate key transport corridors, particularly the north-south axis and the links between seaports and inland dry ports, to be ready for operation once financing is secured.

Railways as an Economic Pillar

The official underscored that rail transport plays a central role in supporting Syria's agricultural and industrial sectors by linking production zones with markets and manufacturing centers, moving crops and raw materials to factories, and delivering finished goods to domestic and foreign markets. He noted that key industries, including food processing, cement, and fertilizers, rely heavily on rail for its speed, reliability, and lower operating costs.

Asbar further emphasized that developing the railway network will strengthen Syria's export capacity by providing a reliable, low-cost route to ports and regional and international markets, particularly given the challenges facing road transport. He also highlighted that railways rank among the most energy-efficient and lowest-carbon transport modes, making them well aligned with global sustainable development goals.

Background: Growing World Bank Engagement

This announcement follows a meeting held in February 2026 between Transport Minister Yarub Badr and World Bank Regional Director for the Middle East Jean-Christophe Carret, during which both sides discussed frameworks for cooperation in railway and sustainable transport, and agreed on financing for the purchase of new locomotives and the maintenance of existing ones. The grant forms part of a growing World Bank engagement in Syria's rebuilding process, which has included multiple grants and development projects across key sectors.