The local time is generally UTC+2 and UTC+3 during Daylight Saving Time (DST).

Yes, DST is observed, typically beginning in March and ending in October, shifting to UTC+3.

Syria shares similar practices with Lebanon and Jordan, observing DST, unlike some nearby countries such as Saudi Arabia, which remains on UTC+3 year-round.

Syria is generally 7-10 hours ahead of the U.S.

Key sectors include:

Agriculture: Main crops include wheat, barley, cotton, olives, and fruits, especially in the fertile areas near the Euphrates River.

Oil and Gas: It has oil reserves and a modest production sector, although extraction and exports have been affected by regional conflicts.

Textiles: Traditional weaving and textile production are notable, particularly in Aleppo, which has a long history in this craft.

Tourism (Pre-conflict): Syria was historically a major tourism destination for its ancient sites, including Palmyra and the Old City of Damascus.

Local trivia and geography include:

Geography: The landscape is diverse, with coastal plains, mountains, and the vast Syrian Desert covering much of the country.

Trivia: Syria is home to one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, Damascus. The city of Aleppo is also one of the oldest, with archaeological sites dating back thousands of years.

Cultural highlights include:

Hospitality: Hospitality is deeply valued, with guests offered refreshments, often coffee or tea, as a sign of respect.

Traditional Cuisine: Syrian food is rich in spices and flavors, with popular dishes like kibbeh, falafel, and hummus.

Craftsmanship: Damascus is famous for its handcrafted goods, particularly in metalwork, inlay, and textiles.

National holidays include:

Evacuation Day (April 17): Commemorates the end of French colonial rule in 1946.

Eid al-Fitr: Celebrated at the end of Ramadan, involving communal prayers, family visits, and festive meals.

Eid al-Adha: Known as the 'Festival of Sacrifice,' marked by communal gatherings, charity, and special prayers.