Is As Suwaydā' safe for tourists?

Most governments currently advise against all travel to Syria including As Suwaydā' due to ongoing conflict, terrorism, kidnapping risks, and limited consular support.

What is the main attraction in As Suwaydā'?

The Roman ruins at Bosra UNESCO site featuring a remarkably preserved 2nd-century theater, along with the province's distinctive black basalt architecture and Druze cultural heritage.

Do I need a visa to visit As Suwaydā'?

Yes, all visitors to Syria require visas obtained in advance from Syrian diplomatic missions, though many countries' citizens face restrictions and the process is complex due to current conditions.

What is the local cuisine like?

Hauran region cuisine features wheat-based dishes like freekeh (green wheat), burghul, traditional Druze breads, dairy products, and seasonal fruits from the volcanic soil.

Can I use credit cards in As Suwaydā'?

No, cash (Syrian pounds) is essential for all transactions. Bring sufficient funds as ATMs are unreliable and international banking connections are limited.

Yes, most nationalities require a visa obtained in advance from a Syrian embassy. Check current regulations as they change frequently.

Is it safe to travel to As Suwaydā'?

Due to the ongoing conflict, travel is strongly discouraged. The region is relatively stable but risks remain.

What currency is used?

Syrian Pound (SYP). Cash is essential as credit cards are rarely accepted. US dollars may be accepted in some places.

Can I use my mobile phone?

Local SIM cards are available from Syriatel or MTN. Roaming may be limited. Internet access is restricted and monitored.

What language is spoken?

Arabic is the official language. English is not widely spoken; a few phrases in Arabic are helpful.

Modest clothing is recommended. Lightweight fabrics for summer, layers for winter. Women should cover their hair in religious sites.

Is alcohol available?

Yes, in some restaurants and hotels in As Suwaydā' city, but not in conservative areas. Drinking in public is prohibited.

Very few ATMs in As Suwaydā' city, and they may not work. Bring enough cash for your stay.

Avoid photographing military personnel, checkpoints, or government buildings. Ask permission before photographing locals.

Highly recommended for safety and navigation. A local guide can help with permits and cultural insights.

What is the electricity voltage?

220V, 50Hz. Plugs are type C and E (European two-pin). Bring an adapter.

As Suwaydā'

ProvinceSyria, Asia

As Suwaydā' is a STATE in Syria, Asia.

As Suwaydā' Province, nestled in southern Syria's volcanic Hauran region, offers travelers a unique window into Syria's rich cultural tapestry and ancient history. Known as the heartland of Syria's Druze community, the province presents distinctive architecture with black basalt stone buildings that create a striking visual contrast against the fertile plains. The provincial capital, As Suwaydā', features charming old quarters and the impressive Roman-era Temple of Dushara. History enthusiasts will marvel at the extensive Roman and Nabatean ruins at Bosra, a UNESCO World Heritage site with one of the world's best-preserved Roman theaters. The surrounding countryside reveals ancient villages like Salkhad with its Ayyubid fortress and Qanawat's remarkable Roman ruins. Beyond archaeology, the region offers authentic cultural experiences through traditional Druze hospitality, local cuisine featuring Hauran's famous wheat products, and vibrant weekly markets. The volcanic landscape creates fertile agricultural land producing excellent wines and fruits, while the moderate elevation provides pleasant summer temperatures compared to Syria's desert regions.

Best time to visit As Suwaydā'

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer the most pleasant weather with mild temperatures (15-25°C) and minimal rainfall. Spring brings green landscapes and wildflowers. Summer can be hot but less extreme than desert regions. Winter sees cold temperatures and occasional snow. Many cultural sites are accessible year-round, but check current security conditions regardless of season.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 15-26°C, pleasant

Travel notes

Crowds: High
Prices: High

Harvest season, wine festivals

Know before you go

Getting there

DAM

Damascus International Airport

International

100 km away

LTK

Bassel Al-Assad International Airport

International

280 km away

Getting around

"Transportation options are limited due to security conditions. Shared taxis (service taxis) operate between major towns but schedules are irregular. Private drivers with local knowledge are recommended for safety and navigation through checkpoints. Car rentals are generally unavailable locally. Walking is feasible within towns but distances between archaeological sites require vehicles. Fuel availability can be inconsistent. Always travel with proper documentation and expect multiple security checkpoints."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

5 Mbps

Mobile data

Fair

WiFi

Limited in cities, rare in rural areas

Local SIM

Local SIM available from Syriatel or MTN, requires passport registration

Calling code

+963

Stay safe

Overall

3/10

Safety is severely impacted by the conflict. Travel is not advised.

Night safety

2/10

Safety is severely impacted by the conflict. Travel is not advised.

Transport

4/10

Scam risk

5/10

"Due to ongoing conflict and security concerns in Syria, most governments advise against all travel to As Suwaydā' Province. The security situation remains volatile with potential for violence, kidnapping, and arbitrary detention. If traveling despite warnings, maintain heightened situational awareness, avoid political gatherings, and follow local guidance closely. Road travel carries risks including checkpoints and unexploded ordnance. Register with your embassy if visiting. The Druze-majority areas have been relatively more stable than other Syrian regions but remain unpredictable. Travel only with experienced local guides familiar with current conditions."

Police

112

Ambulance

110

Fire

113

Tourist Police

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities in As Suwaydā' are limited compared to Damascus. The National Hospital in As Suwaydā' city provides basic emergency services. Travelers should have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation. Recommended vaccinations include routine vaccines plus Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and COVID-19. Bring all necessary prescription medications as availability may be limited. Water should be boiled or consumed bottled. Medical care may require payment in cash. Due to ongoing conflict, medical infrastructure has been affected - verify current conditions before travel."

Culture

Local customs

"As Suwaydā' is predominantly Druze, with conservative social norms. Dress modestly (covering shoulders and knees) especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Women should carry a headscarf for religious sites. The Druze community is generally hospitable but private about their religious practices - respect this privacy. Always ask permission before photographing people. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in restaurants (5-10%). Remove shoes when entering homes. Avoid public displays of affection. Political discussions should be approached with extreme caution."

ArabicAramaic (minority)Armenian (minority)

Costs and practicals

Currency

Syrian Pound (SYP) · £ or ل.س

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$3-5 | a cheap local meal costs around $3-5

Hotels

$20-50 | budget hotels range $20-50/night

Local transport

$0.50 | local bus ride ~$0.50

Cost notes

Prices are low but availability is limited. Bring cash.

Timezone

Asia/Damascus +03:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

370,000

Area

5,550 km²

Government

Provincial government under Syrian Arab Republic central authority

ISO code

SY-SU

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Ալ-Սուեյդա, Σουάδα, As-Suweida, Siweyda, As-Suwajda, Διονῡσιάς, السویداء, سویدا, Ас-Сувейда, Suveida, Əs-Süveyda, Szuvajdá, Ес-Сувейда, Soueïda, スワイダー, Süveyda, Ας Σουγουαΐντα, א-סוידא, 苏韦达, as-Suweida, Suvajda, Сувајда, 수와이다, As-Suwaydā’, Sweida, സുവൈദ, السويداء, As-Suwayda, Chahba, Filippopolis, Philippopolis, Phillipopolis, Philppopolis, Schahba, Shaba, Shahaba, Shahba, Shahba', Shahbah, Shahbā, Shahbā’, Shakhba, shhba, Φιλιππόπολις, Шахба, شهبا

Major HubHistoric CityHikingWine RegionOff the Beaten PathCultural Heritage