Google has announced the removal of Syria from the sanctions list imposed by the U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), effective August 13, allowing the resumption of the company’s advertising services in the country for the first time since 2011.
اضافة اعلان
In a policy update statement, the company noted that the change included an update to its "Understanding Country Restrictions" help page, removing Syria from the list of restricted regions. The remaining restricted areas now include only Crimea, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and the so-called Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics.
Lifting Restrictions on Key Platforms
The decision lifts restrictions on three major Google platforms:
Google Ads
Google Ad Exchange
Google Ad Manager
Previously, these platforms blocked targeting users in Syria or creating accounts from IP addresses located within the country.
Google stated that Syrian publishers and advertisers will need to recover their accounts through manual verification procedures. This will involve submitting official documents, verifying identity, and agreeing to updated terms of service.
Background of the Sanctions
Google’s restrictions on Syria were originally based on Executive Order 13338, signed by former U.S. President George W. Bush in 2004. These restrictions were further expanded after the outbreak of the Syrian war in 2011, encompassing limitations on financial and technological services, according to PPC.LAND.
Now, removing Syria from the sanctions list opens new doors for the local market of over 22 million people, giving them renewed access to digital marketing services—despite the country’s weakened and war-damaged infrastructure.
Opportunities and Challenges
According to international telecom estimates, internet penetration in Syria stands at around 34%, with widespread reliance on smartphones. This makes mobile advertising one of the most promising channels, despite ongoing economic challenges.
Regional advertising trends suggest modest initial investments, with growth potential hinging on economic stability and infrastructure development. Google’s broader advertising policy updates emphasize privacy protection and emerging ad formats, both of which could shape the evolution of the Syrian market.
Additionally, Google confirmed that advertisers in Syria will be subject to the same global ad policies, including restrictions on misleading content and inappropriate materials.
Regional Context
This decision coincides with a broader trend of digital transformation in the Middle East. Neighboring markets such as Lebanon, Jordan, and Turkey have witnessed notable growth in digital advertising in recent years.
The removal of restrictions on Syria is expected to open opportunities for both local and international companies to access new consumer segments, driving innovation and potential growth in the Syrian digital economy.
