Libya vs Syria

I would so like to visit Middle East area this year. I know that part of the world can be in a way tricky for a visit but I am willing to give it a go. I am indecisive in a way, trying to make final decision and narrowed my list of choices on two countries; Libya and Syria. Maybe I will try to visit them both who knows, but I wonder in your opinion which country you find more interesting.

I guess I am being led by my sisters opinion here so I pick Syria. She was in Jordan and Syria many years ago and I still catch her talking about that one from time to time. I must say I have no idea what is there to see in Libya, but I had a friend whose father was working there for quite some time, so I somehow have build the picture of Libya as an oil, rich and business country without much cultural value. Maybe I am being wrong here; you are allowed to prove me that, no problem. Somehow I think that only Damascus and its attractions could beat Libya on its own. I am just not sure how safety matter works these days there.