From Toronto to Damascus: Syrians return home aiming to rebuild country

What the report says

Al Jazeera reports from Damascus that some Syrians who built lives abroad are returning after the fall of Bashar al-Assad’s government in December 2024, hoping to contribute to the country’s recovery despite severe economic and social strains. The story centers on Yasseen Tasabehji, 33, whose family left Syria for Mississauga, near Toronto, in 2010 and had not expected to move back.

According to the report, Tasabehji and his siblings visited Damascus in April 2025 while considering opening a climbing gym, then relocated permanently in July. They established the gym in the Mezzeh neighborhood and are using it to create youth programmes, community activities and a space where young Syrians can gather. Tasabehji told Al Jazeera the family saw a country in need and believed even small additions could matter.

Al Jazeera says the Tasabehjis are among about 1.5 million Syrians who have returned since al-Assad fled Damascus. Returnees include refugees from neighbouring countries as well as Syrians who had been working or living in Europe and the Gulf. The report cites World Bank estimates that reconstruction will cost at least $216bn, and says Syria’s government under President Ahmed al-Sharaa has sought relief from sanctions as it tries to attract investment.

The article also highlights risks. Tariq Azeez of the International Rescue Committee told Al Jazeera that about 400,000 Syrians have returned from Lebanon because of Israel’s war, though some may leave again if conditions change. He warned that Syria needs gradual, orderly returns because services, trust between communities and the wider social fabric remain fragile. Al Jazeera reports that 15.6 million Syrians still need humanitarian assistance.