Underwater Museum Proposed Off Syria’s Latakia Coast

A large-scale underwater museum has been proposed off the coast of Latakia as a marine tourism project combining cultural attractions with environmental regeneration. Titled “From War to Life”, the concept was presented at Syria Travel Show 2026 in the presence of Syrian Tourism Minister Mazen Al Salhani and Lebanese Tourism Minister Laura Khazen Lahoud.

The proposed visitor route would begin with a submerged structure inspired by the architecture of Palmyra before moving through an area displaying works by Syrian artists and another incorporating specially treated, permanently decommissioned equipment into the underwater landscape.

The project team envisages the submerged structures gradually developing into habitats for marine organisms, alongside an artificial marine garden with interconnected spaces for fish and other species. The attraction could also support diving centres, boat operators, hotels, restaurants and transport providers in Latakia, while providing space for marine research, environmental education and underwater photography. Media professional and entrepreneur David Shawakh introduced the concept through a visual presentation and footage filmed during dives along the Syrian coast.

The proposal remains at the concept and preliminary-study stage, with no development timetable or investment figure announced. The next phase would involve identifying potential marine sites and conducting environmental, hydrographic, navigational, archaeological and engineering studies before determining the project’s final scale and feasibility.