Historic Trade Route Set to Reopen Connecting Turkey, Jordan, and Gulf

A major new initiative supported by Turkey, Jordan, and the Gulf Cooperation Council is preparing to reopen a historic land trade corridor through Syria, aiming to connect Gulf countries with Syria and Jordan by 2026. This corridor, closed for over a decade due to conflict, is expected to become one of the most important trade routes in the region.

Turkish Trade Minister Ömer Bolat explained that trucks from Turkey will be able to cross Syria into Jordan and continue to Gulf markets after key issues related to customs, visas, and infrastructure are resolved. The reopening of this corridor is expected to reduce transit times and costs while boosting regional trade.

The corridor could transform Syria into a strategic transit hub. Minister Bolat described it as one of the region’s most vital trade arteries. This initiative also signals a strong commitment from Gulf states to revive overland trade routes that were once critical for commerce in the Middle East.

Earlier this year, Turkey and Syria signed an agreement allowing trucks to cross the border without switching cargo to local vehicles. This step is seen as crucial for freeing up overland trade and ensuring smoother transit. Officials from Jordan, Syria, and Turkey have held meetings to discuss restoring the historic Hejaz Railway and improving key border crossings.

Trade between Turkey and Jordan has already been increasing steadily. Bilateral trade reached over one billion US dollars in 2024 and is expected to grow further in 2025. Experts believe the corridor will accelerate trade and strengthen economic ties between the countries involved.

Despite optimism, there are challenges ahead. Syrian customs procedures and visa regulations still need to be fully addressed. Road and rail infrastructure within Syria requires significant repair after years of conflict. Coordinating multiple countries’ regulations and security measures will also be a complex task that requires careful planning and cooperation.

For Gulf exporters, the corridor provides a faster land route to European markets, bypassing longer sea or air paths. It also creates new opportunities for investment, reconstruction, and regional supply chain development. Syria and Jordan stand to benefit from trade revival, job creation, and greater economic integration with the region.

If the corridor becomes fully operational by 2026, it is expected to significantly increase overland freight traffic, lower transport costs, and speed up deliveries. Restored railway links will complement road transport, boosting reconstruction and logistics industries in Syria and neighbouring countries. This initiative could help integrate Levant and Gulf economies more closely with Europe and strengthen regional trade networks.

This corridor represents more than a transport project. It reflects a shift in regional geopolitics and an effort to revive economies affected by conflict. The cooperation between Turkey, Jordan, and the Gulf states shows a strong commitment to reconnecting the Middle East’s historic trade routes. By 2026, the reopening of this corridor may become one of the most significant milestones in regional transport and trade recovery. 

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