Famous People From Damascus, Syrian Arab Republic & Celebs Born In Damascus
Matthew Elliott
Updated on January 16, 2026
Birthdate: July 11, 1947
Sun Sign: Cancer
Died: May 13, 2020
Riad Ismat was a Syrian writer, theatre director, and critic. Also a political figure, Ismat served as the Minister of Culture from 2010 to 2012. Prior to his service as Minister of Culture, Riad Ismat served as Syrian ambassador to Pakistan and Qatar. A renowned playwright and theatre director, Riad Ismat is also credited with founding Syria's first mime troupe.
