As-Suwayda Governorate

Al-Suwayda Governorate مُحافظة السويداء
Governorate
Map of Syria with al-Suwayda Governorate highlighted
Coordinates (Al-Suwayda): 32°48′N 36°48′E / 32.8°N 36.8°E / 32.8; 36.8
Country	Syria
Capital	Al-Suwayda
Manatiq (Districts)	3
Government
• Governor	Akram Ali Muhammad[2][3]
Area
• Total	5,550 km2 (2,140 sq mi)
Population  (2011)
• Total	375,000[1]
Time zone	UTC+2 (EET)
• Summer (DST)	UTC+3 (EEST)
ISO 3166 code	SY-SU
Main language(s)	Arabic

As-Suwayda or Al-Suwayda Governorate (Arabic: مُحافظة السويداء / ALA-LC: Muḥāfaẓat as-Suwaydā’) is one of the fourteen governorates (provinces) of Syria. It is the southernmost governorate, covering an area of 5,550 km², and is part of the historic Hawran region. The capital and largest city of the governorate is al-Suwayda.

Geographically the governorate comprises almost all of Jabal al-Druze, the eastern part of Lejah, and a part of the arid eastern steppe of Harrat al-Shamah.

Most inhabitants of As-Suwayda are employed in agriculture, cultivating crops such as grapes, apples, olives, and wheat. The region experiences four distinct seasons (winter, spring, summer, and fall) which contribute to its pleasant climate and scenic natural beauty. Additionally, As-Suwayda is home to numerous archaeological sites.