Across the global climbing and mountaineering community, new federations are emerging, some driven by passionate young outdoor enthusiasts seeking safe, responsible ways to explore natural landscapes. One such organization is the Syrian Mountain Activities Association (SAMA), a young but ambitious federation dedicated to building a structured climbing and outdoor culture in Syria while establishing links with the international mountaineering community. SAMA becomes a full member association of UIAA in October 2025 at the Congress in Peja, Kosovo.
Founded in 2022 and based in Djabra in the Latakia region, SAMA represents a new generation of climbers, trekkers and adventurers who see mountains not only as places of challenge and exploration, but also as spaces for education, environmental awareness and community building.
Information for this article was provided by Rahaf Jdeed, Secretary and Communications Manager, SAMA.
Aspire to be part of a global mountain network
A central question for any emerging national federation is why international links are important. For SAMA, the motivation for applying for UIAA membership was clear from the beginning of the application process: to align with international standards in safety, training and mountain protection. The organization also hopes to connect with climbers around the world, exchange expertise and present a more positive image of Syrian landscape and culture to the international outdoor community.
As detailed by Rahaf Jdeed: “We hope to benefit from internationally recognized expertise in safety, training and mountain protection. Being part of the global mountaineering community will allow us to learn from different experiences, connect with climbers from different cultures and exchange best practices. We also aim to strengthen the skills of our instructors and volunteers through exposure to appropriate technology and modern standards, helping us build a stronger mountaineering culture in Syria. At the same time, we look forward to sharing our country’s mountains, landscapes and cultural heritage with the international community.”
Providing a pathway for young climbers
SAMA’s membership profile reflects a wider trend in many countries: young people are increasingly turning to the outdoors as a source of adventure, community and personal development. Currently, the federation has approximately 50 individual members, the majority of whom are under the age of 30, and is supported by a growing network of approximately 70 volunteers across multiple provinces. Although there is currently no club-based structure, the organization plans to develop a league system in the future that would allow local clubs to form under the leadership of a national federation.
Hiking remains a core activity for most members, and camping is hugely popular among young outdoor enthusiasts across the country. Basic climbing, rappelling, canyoning and caving are growing steadily, supported by training programs and field activities organized by the federation.
A recent noteworthy milestone is the opening of Damascus’s first dedicated climbing gym, demonstrating the growing interest in climbing as a recreational and competitive sport.
Syria's mountainous environment
Although Syria is not widely known internationally as a rock climbing destination, its terrain is extremely varied. The coastal areas are dominated by limestone and sandstone formations, while river valleys, karst systems and plateaus create ideal conditions for hiking, canyoning and caving.
Mount Hermon (2814m) is the highest peak in the country and has special geographical and cultural significance. Although access to the summit is currently restricted due to territorial circumstances, the mountain remains a symbol of the country's alpine potential. Climbers working in accessible areas have established routes and exploratory climbs, demonstrating the opportunities for mountaineering development in the region.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the wider Syrian landscape offers vast ridgelines suitable for long-distance walking, canyon systems carved by seasonal waters, and cliffs suitable for introductory rock climbing. With the right infrastructure, training and safety standards, the country could eventually become a noteworthy adventure tourism destination.
SAMA’s first steps
SAMA’s development approach emphasizes ambitious yet well-planned goals designed to inspire participants and build confidence. Its achievements include the first recorded ascent of the highest point of Syria's tallest mountain (the aforementioned Mount Hermon), the creation of a 100-kilometer multi-day mountain trail, the country's first subterranean cave descent, and the most technical rappelling recorded in the country.
These initiatives are not only milestones in the world of sports; They are tools to develop teamwork, resilience and leadership in young participants. By encouraging responsible risk-taking, the federation aims to develop technical skills and a deeper understanding of the natural environment.
Training, safety and environmental responsibility
Safety and education have become core pillars of SAMA's activities. The federation runs training programs covering hiking skills, navigation, camping techniques and rappelling, while also organizing rescue workshops and awareness courses focusing on mountain medicine and first aid. The long-term goal is to establish a certified mountain rescue capability in the country.
Environmental protection is equally important. Regular clean-ups, tree plantings and wildlife awareness programs are designed to promote responsible outdoor activities. Educational publications, such as guides on local wildlife such as snakes and scorpions and a series of nature guides, help strengthen participants' culture of environmental stewardship.
Who can travel to Syria
In recent years, Syria's tourism industry has gradually begun to recover, with more and more tourists expressing interest in wilderness adventure and climbing. SAMA already hosts international visitors and provides comprehensive logistical and safety support to foreign climbers wishing to explore the country’s mountains.
As Rahaf Jdeed explains: “In recent years, Syria's tourism industry has begun to gradually recover, with the Ministry of Tourism reporting an increase of nearly 80% in tourist numbers. This growth includes a significant increase in travelers interested in wilderness exploration, camping and climbing – many of whom have been hosted by SAMA. “
Visitors can join organized group activities to experience the local outdoor culture and explore natural and historical sites under the supervision of a guide. This approach enables international climbers to discover new terrain while ensuring safe and responsible exploration.
Anyone planning to travel to Syria should first seek travel guidance and advice from their respective country’s authorities.
Plans for the next few years
Although still in its early stages, SAMA has outlined an ambitious vision for the future. Plans include developing sport climbing structures to international standards, expanding training programs and moving to a federated model that supports the formation of local clubs across the country.
Equally important is the federation's social mission: to provide constructive opportunities for young people to connect with nature, develop leadership skills, and build healthier lifestyles through outdoor activities. In a country that has endured years of instability, mountains provide a powerful setting for renewal, collaboration and shared purpose.
UIAA welcomes SAMA as part of Global Mountain Network.
More resources
UIAA Member Association
Samar website
Sama Facebook
Sama Instagram
