From war to life: Syrian underwater museum could turn military equipment into marine habitat

Syria unveiled plans for an underwater museum off the coast of Latakia that aims to merge the nation's heritage with contemporary art, marine tourism, and environmental regeneration, incorporating military equipment from the war. Presented at the Syria Travel Show 2026, the concept was proposed by Tourism Minister Mazen Al Salhani alongside Lebanese Tourism Minister Laura Lahoud.

The museum, envisioned as a major open diving destination, would provide a unique opportunity to explore Syrian cultural identity beneath the Mediterranean Sea while fostering marine tourism, environmental education, scientific research, and economic activity in coastal communities.

David Shawakh, a media professional and entrepreneur, introduced the concept through a film showcasing dives along the Syrian coast and visualizations of the museum's potential design. Shawakh described the underwater museum as a journey through Syrian identity, beginning with elements inspired by Palmyrene architecture, progressing through works by Syrian artists, and culminating in a marine environment featuring decommissioned military equipment repurposed into an underwater habitat.

This transformation, encapsulated in the slogan "From war to life," aims to repurpose conflict-related objects into a thriving marine ecosystem.

The broader proposal also encompasses an artificial marine garden aimed at creating interconnected spaces for marine life, adding an educational and ecological dimension to the visitor experience. According to Al Salhani, the initiative seeks to diversify Syria's tourism sector, foster innovation, and encourage private-sector engagement.

He emphasized the country's potential to turn its assets into experiences and products that create value for local communities. If implemented, the museum could spur a broader coastal tourism economy, involving diving centers, boat operators, hotels, restaurants, transport providers, and other tourism services. Additionally, it could offer opportunities for marine research, underwater photography, and environmental education.

The project team expressed hope, pending further studies and international benchmarking, to develop the concept into one of the world's major open underwater museums. Currently in the concept and preliminary study phase, the project awaits the identification of suitable sites and comprehensive environmental, hydrographic, navigational, archaeological, and engineering assessments before advancing to a master plan and pilot phase.

This concept is part of wider efforts to develop innovative tourism experiences along Syria's Mediterranean coast, providing opportunities for local communities and businesses to participate in the sector's growth.