Need cash when I land, best place in Syria? Airport or places in the city?
The airport exchange counters have awful rates. Your best bet is to find a licensed and reputable currency exchange center in Damascus. The unofficial market rate is much better than the official bank rate. I've used places in the city and got a good rate. You must have US dollars with you, and it's best to have clean, new bills. Don't exchange large amounts at once, and always count your money in front of them.
I cannot stress this enough: do not use the airport exchange. It's a terrible deal. Your best option is to bring enough US dollars with you for your entire trip and exchange them at a reputable money changer in the city. The Syrian pound has a highly fluctuating value, and the unofficial rate is much better for you. Don't rely on getting cash from an ATM; they do not work with international cards.
The airport exchange is a waste of time. Your best bet is to find a reliable money changer in the city. The country's economy is in a difficult state, and you'll get a much better rate for your US dollars from a private exchanger than you will from a bank. I've had good luck with places in the Hamra area. This is the only way to get a good rate. You cannot use a credit or debit card at an ATM in Syria.
Do not use the airport exchange under any circumstances. It's a total scam. Your only option is to bring cash with you, preferably US dollars or Euros, and exchange it at a reputable money changer in Damascus. The unofficial exchange rate is much, much better than the official rate. My advice is to find a trusted money changer in a well-known area. Don't exchange large amounts at once, and always count your money in front of them.