Latakia is set for a new generation of coastal living and hospitality with Eco Life, a project developed by Eagle Hills, led by Emirati businessman Mohamed Alabbar, founder of Emaar Properties and one of the region’s leading developers of destinations and integrated communities. The project follows a framework agreement signed yesterday between Eagle Hills and the Syrian Ministry of Tourism, in the presence of President Ahmad Al-Sharaa, at the People’s Palace in Damascus.
An Integrated Vision for Coastal Living:
Eco Life presents an integrated vision for a coastal destination centred on a yacht marina and waterfront, combining hospitality facilities, villas, residential complexes and entertainment, alongside internal lakes and water features surrounded by buildings and units overlooking the water. The design places the sea and water at the heart of the destination’s experience and lifestyle.
Syrian Minister of Tourism Mazen Al-Salhani said the current concept represents the project’s initial vision, which will continue to evolve during the design phase. He noted that construction is targeted to begin within around five to six months, once the plans, procedures and land handover are complete.
A Broader Economic Impact:
Al-Salhani said the project’s most significant impact will be the economy that grows around the destination, from hotels, restaurants, entertainment, transport and events to suppliers, entrepreneurs, services and local businesses, making tourism investment a driver of broader economic activity and giving surrounding communities a greater role in, and benefit from, the growth of tourism.
Initial official estimates indicate that the Latakia project could generate more than 40,000 direct and indirect jobs, including over 10,000 permanent positions. Al-Salhani said that working with international investors and expertise also opens the door to knowledge transfer, capacity building and developing the skills of Syrian talent in hospitality and destination management.
The Syrian coast has a diverse base for developing tourism products that combine the sea, mountains, nature, cultural heritage, cities, villages and local experiences. Developing integrated destinations can extend the tourism season, diversify the reasons for visiting, and strengthen the region’s ability to attract investment and different tourism segments.
The project’s development comes as the Ministry of Tourism works to convert rising tourism demand into investment, capacity and new products and experiences, with a central role for the private sector in construction, operations and innovation, supporting a broader economy led by growth in the tourism sector.
