The Arab Center for Contemporary Syria Studies in Damascus was formally established in 2025 as a research institution dedicated to the social sciences and humanities, with a particular focus on contemporary Syrian issues and the associated political, social, and economic questions.

The Center conducts studies, research papers, and policy assessments, and organizes seminars, workshops, and academic conferences. It also develops specialized research programmes, including the Political Transition Studies project. In addition, it publishes Qalamoun, a peer-reviewed academic journal specializing in the social sciences and humanities. The Center also organizes the Annual Forum for Contemporary Syrian Studies, which brings together researchers, academics and specialists on Syrian affairs to discuss matters relating to Syria from multiple scholarly perspectives. Furthermore, it seeks to strengthen cooperation with universities and research and cultural institutions worldwide in a manner that supports scholarly research related to Syrian affairs.