Syrian General Railway Corporation
The Syrian General Railway Corporation (known in French as Chemins de fer syriens or CFS) serves as the national railway operator for the state of Syria. As a government-owned entity, it operates under the authority of the Ministry of Transport, ensuring the movement of passengers and goods across the nation's rail network.
Beyond simple transport, the corporation is the primary owner of Syria's railway infrastructure, managing the physical tracks and the systems required to keep them operational.

Key Facts
- Founded: 1956
- Headquarters: Aleppo, Syria
- Ownership: Ministry of Transport (Government-owned)
- Current Chairman: Osama Haddad
- Operational Scope: National coverage across Syria
Organizational Structure and Operations
To maintain efficiency across a diverse geographical landscape, the Syrian General Railway Corporation divides its operations into three distinct administrative regions:
- Central Region
- Eastern Region
- Northern Region
The corporation's responsibilities extend beyond the operation of trains. It provides critical technical services, including rail signalling (the system used to control rail traffic and prevent collisions) and comprehensive infrastructure maintenance to ensure safety and reliability.
Corporate Summary
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Official Name | Syrian General Railway Corporation (CFS) |
| Established | 1956 |
| Headquarters | Aleppo |
| Governing Body | Ministry of Transport |
| Primary Services | Infrastructure management, signalling, and maintenance |
| Official Website | cfssyria.sy |
History and Workforce
Established in 1956, the organization was previously referred to in English as the General Establishment of Syrian Railways. Over the decades, it has grown into a massive state employer. For instance, by the end of 2004, the CFS employed approximately 12,400 staff members to manage the complexities of the national network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns the Syrian General Railway Corporation?
The corporation is government-owned and operates as a subordinate entity to the Syrian Ministry of Transport.
Where is the CFS headquartered?
The headquarters of the Syrian General Railway Corporation are located in Aleppo.
What are the primary services provided by the CFS?
In addition to operating rail transport, the CFS is responsible for rail signalling and the maintenance of the railway infrastructure.
How is the railway network divided for operational purposes?
The company divides its operations into three regions: Northern, Eastern, and Central.
When was the corporation founded?
The Syrian General Railway Corporation was established in 1956.