Reopened Al-Qaim crossing with Syria revitalizes local economy, local officials say

ANBAR — The reopening of the Al-Qaim border crossing with Syria is breathing new life into Anbar’s economy after months of closure due to regional instability, according to local officials.

Turki Mohammed Khalaf, district administrator of Al-Qaim, told 964media that operations resumed on June 14 under the oversight of the Anbar governor and Iraq’s prime minister. “The crossing opened with high efficiency. It has had a very positive impact on the people of Al-Qaim and Anbar governorate as a whole,” he said.

The site, which links Anbar to Syria’s Deir ez-Zor province, currently operates around the clock in coordination with Syrian authorities. Khalaf said customs and administrative procedures are now handled electronically, cutting wait times and improving cargo flow.

The crossing, known as Al-Bukamal on the Syrian side, had been closed since December 2024 following armed clashes that led to the temporary withdrawal of Syrian government forces. Multiple crossings were shuttered during that period due to deteriorating security conditions.

Syria’s General Directorate of Land and Maritime Border Crossings announced the reopening on June 14 for both passenger and commercial traffic. In a statement, the agency urged travelers and drivers to follow all regulations to maintain safety and order.

In Al-Qaim, the economic effects have been swift. “The crossing now provides jobs for more than 400 families from the district,” Khalaf said, noting that the area had suffered from economic stagnation and high unemployment. “The return of commercial activity has boosted trade and improved the standard of living for many residents.”

He called on the federal government to prioritize development at the crossing. “We ask the prime minister to consider expanding the site and adding new service and administrative buildings, given its national importance,” Khalaf said.

Passenger movement is also proceeding smoothly, he added. “All procedures are in place, and there are no issues worth mentioning.”