Residents of Damascus were surprised by an invitation from the governorate to participate in a series of dialogue sessions to discuss the future of the city.
In a statement circulated by the media, the Damascus governorate announced that the sessions would be “participatory dialogues” designed to hear the opinions and suggestions of residents regarding projects and services needed for the development of neighborhoods.
The statement described the discussions as a “valuable opportunity” for citizens to contribute to shaping the city’s future. It emphasized that the residents’ feedback would be key to achieving sustainable development that addresses the needs of all community members and future generations.
Local newspaper Al-Watan noted that this initiative is the first of its kind in Syria and aligns with the country’s ongoing administrative decentralization efforts.
Sources in Damascus told Asharq Al-Awsat that the timing of this initiative is significant, as it coincides with an agreement signed between Damascus Governorate and Tehran Municipality, aimed at strengthening cooperation and exchanging expertise across various sectors.
The sources suggested that the swift signing of the agreement reflects pressure from Iran on the Syrian government to carry out civil projects that Iran is involved in. These projects are seen as part of Iran’s effort to deepen its presence and control in the Syrian capital. The sources speculated that the invitation for public dialogue may be an attempt by the Damascus Governorate to shift accountability for delays onto local public opinion, as it is widely understood that the Iranian presence in Damascus has been a point of tension for many of the city’s residents.
Following the signing of the twinning agreement, Tehran Mayor Alireza Zakani stated that the deal is aimed at enhancing cooperation in various fields. He highlighted Tehran’s leadership in public transportation projects, including the development of the subway system, the transition of public buses to electric power, and the management of solid waste—efforts aimed at improving service and economic conditions in Damascus.
Damascus Governor Tariq Kreishati expressed his readiness to collaborate with Tehran Municipality on enhancing service levels and contributing to several strategic projects in the city, such as the subway system and waste management, as reported by the state-run SANA news agency.
The governorate’s call for a public dialogue on Damascus’ future has sparked both curiosity and skepticism. Many large-scale projects that could significantly alter the face of the capital were previously pushed through with little regard for public criticism, despite concerns about their potential impact on residents. According to an investigative report, these concerns were often overlooked.
Syria Indicator, an investigative platform, published a report on the situation of residents in the Mezzeh-Bustan al-Razi area of Damascus, who were displaced from their homes in 2017 following a 2012 presidential decree. This decree paved the way for two major real estate projects: Marota City and Basilia City. The report estimated that investment returns from Marota City alone could range between 52 and 105 trillion Syrian pounds (approximately $3.5 to $7 billion).
The platform detailed how these projects have been plagued by “corruption, poor planning and management, sanctions, and a power struggle for influence and wealth.” Displaced property owners have been left “begging at the doors of Damascus Governorate and real estate offices,” according to one affected resident.
Of the 7,500 families displaced from their homes, 5,500 were promised “alternative housing” that they would have to pay for, but none have yet received their homes. Progress on the Marota City project has been extremely slow.
