How to Call Syria
Complete guide to dialing Syria (country code +963)
Learning how to call Syria doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're connecting with family, friends, or business contacts, understanding the proper dialing procedure ensures your calls go through smoothly every time. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about calling Syria from anywhere in the world. We'll cover step-by-step dialing instructions, including the correct country code and area codes you'll need. You'll also discover common mistakes people make when placing international calls and how to avoid them. We've included essential tips on Syrian phone etiquette to help you make a great impression, plus a collection of useful emergency and service numbers. By the end of this guide, you'll feel confident making calls to Syria whenever needed.
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Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
International Dialing Format Structure
To call Syria from abroad, follow this format: Exit Code + 963 + Area Code (without leading zero) + Local Number
Syria's country code is +963, but you must first dial your country's international exit code to place the call.
Step-by-Step Dialing Instructions
From the United States:
- Dial 011 (US exit code)
- Dial 963 (Syria country code)
- Dial the area code without the leading zero
- Dial the local number
From the United Kingdom:
- Dial 00 (UK exit code)
- Dial 963 (Syria country code)
- Dial the area code without the leading zero
- Dial the local number
From other countries:
Replace the exit code with your country's code (commonly 00 for most European nations, 0011 for Australia).
Dropping the Leading Zero
Syrian phone numbers include a leading zero when dialing domestically. Always remove this zero when calling from abroad. For example, if a Damascus number is 011-2345-6789 locally, dial only 11-2345-6789 after the country code.
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Damascus Landline (011-2345-6789):
- From USA: 011-963-11-2345-6789
- From UK: 00-963-11-2345-6789
Example 2 - Aleppo Landline (021-8765-4321):
- From USA: 011-963-21-8765-4321
- From UK: 00-963-21-8765-4321
Example 3 - Syrian Mobile Number (0944-123-456):
- From USA: 011-963-944-123-456
- From UK: 00-963-944-123-456
Syrian mobile numbers typically start with 9 (after removing the zero). Mobile area codes include 933, 944, 955, 965, 966, 988, and 991.
Quick Tips
- Save international numbers with the + prefix (+963) in your phone for automatic formatting
- Verify current area codes as telecommunication infrastructure may have changed
- Check with your carrier about international calling rates before dialing
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Common Mistakes
When calling Syria, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero
Syrian local numbers begin with 0, but you must remove it when dialing internationally. For example, if the local number is 011-2345678, dial +963-11-2345678, not +963-011-2345678.
2. Using the wrong exit code
Different countries have different exit codes (011 for the US, 00 for most European countries). Either use the + symbol, which works universally, or verify your country's specific exit code before dialing.
3. Confusing country code with area code
Syria's country code is +963, not to be confused with area codes like 11 (Damascus) or 21 (Aleppo). Always dial the country code first, followed by the area code (without the zero), then the local number.
4. Incorrect number formatting
Syrian phone numbers have specific formats: landlines are typically 7 digits (after the area code), while mobile numbers are 9 digits starting with 9. Ensure you have the complete number before dialing.
5. Not verifying current connectivity
Due to ongoing situations, verify that international calls to Syria are currently supported by your carrier.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in Syria, understanding local customs helps build stronger relationships and shows cultural respect.
Greetings and Formality
Always begin calls with "Marhaba" (hello) or "As-salamu alaykum" (peace be upon you). Use formal titles like "Ustaz" (Mr.) or "Ustaza" (Ms.) with surnames, especially in business contexts. Personal calls can be more casual, but initial politeness is valued.
Business vs. Personal Calls
Business calls should be direct but courteous, beginning with proper greetings and brief pleasantries about health and family before discussing business matters. Personal calls typically involve longer conversations with extensive inquiries about family wellbeing, which demonstrates genuine care.
Timing Considerations
Avoid calling during prayer times, particularly Friday noon prayers. Late morning (10 AM-12 PM) and early evening (6-8 PM) are generally appropriate for business calls. Personal calls can extend later into the evening, as Syrians often socialize late.
Voice Messages
Leaving voice messages is acceptable, though many prefer texting. Keep messages brief and clear, stating your name, purpose, and contact information.
Cultural Considerations
Patience is essential—conversations may take longer than in Western cultures. Don't rush through pleasantries, as this appears rude. If calling someone's mobile during Ramadan, be mindful of fasting hours. Women should be prepared for male family members to answer initially in traditional households. Speaking clearly and warmly reflects well on your character and intentions.
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Emergency Numbers
Police: 112
Ambulance: 110
Fire Department: 113
Civil Defense (Rescue Services): 113
Important Information:
These emergency numbers should work from both landlines and mobile phones throughout Syria. However, the current security situation and ongoing conflict have severely impacted emergency services infrastructure in many areas. Response times can vary significantly depending on location, and services may be unavailable in conflict-affected regions.
English-speaking operators are generally not available; Arabic is the primary language for emergency services. Where services are operational, they function 24/7, though reliability varies by region. In areas controlled by different authorities, alternative local emergency numbers may be in use. It's advisable to have local contacts or hotel staff assist with emergency calls when possible.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance: Dial 147 for local directory information and phone number inquiries within Syria.
International Operator: Call 143 to reach the international operator for assistance with overseas calls and connections.
Tourist Information: Contact the Ministry of Tourism at +963-11-222-1803 for travel guidance and tourist services.
Embassy Contacts: Keep your embassy's number readily available. U.S. citizens should contact the U.S. Interests Section of the Czech Embassy at +963-11-333-2814 (note: services are currently limited).
Damascus International Airport: +963-11-224-4600 for flight information and inquiries.
Syrian Railways: +963-11-222-1600 for train schedules and booking information.
Telephone Complaints: Dial 144 to report telephone service issues or technical problems.
Time Service: Dial 140 to receive the current time in Syria.
Tips for Calling Syria
When calling Syria, timing is crucial for successful communication. Syria operates on Eastern European Time (UTC+3) year-round, with no daylight saving time changes. To catch people during business hours, aim for 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Syrian time, typically Sunday through Thursday, as Friday and Saturday constitute the weekend.
For international calls, coordinate carefully across time zones. If calling from New York (UTC-5), Syria is eight hours ahead; from London (UTC+0), three hours ahead. Early mornings in Western time zones often work best for reaching Syrian contacts during their business day.
Always schedule business calls in advance via email or messaging apps to ensure availability. Avoid calling during Ramadan prayer times and major Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, when business activity slows significantly.
For clearer communication, speak slowly and confirm important details via follow-up messages. Poor infrastructure may affect call quality, so WhatsApp or similar internet-based platforms often provide better connections than traditional phone lines. Keep conversations concise during peak business hours (10 AM-2 PM Syrian time) when professionals are busiest, and expect more relaxed availability during off-peak afternoon hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Syria is +963. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Syria from anywhere in the world.
To dial Syria from your cell phone, start with + or 011, then dial 963 (Syria's country code), followed by the area code without the leading zero, and then the local phone number. For example: +963-11-XXX-XXXX for Damascus.
Yes, you must drop the leading zero from the Syrian area code when calling from abroad. For example, if the area code is 011 for Damascus, you would dial +963-11 followed by the local number.
The cheapest way to call Syria is using ZippCall, which offers affordable pay-as-you-go international calling rates. With ZippCall, you can call from your web browser, iPhone, or Android device with no contracts, no subscriptions, and no hidden fees—just transparent, low-cost rates for calling Syria.
In Syria, the main emergency numbers are 110 for police, 113 for ambulance services, and 112 or 113 for fire services. These numbers may vary by region and service availability should be confirmed locally.
Yes, you can call Syria directly from your web browser using ZippCall. Simply visit the ZippCall website, enter the Syrian phone number, and start calling without downloading any software or apps.
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