Syria Population 2026: 21.3M People, Density & Key Facts
Syria is a country with a moderate, fairly even population spread: 21.3M people across 185,180 km², giving a density of 115/km².
GDP per capita stands at $521 (est.): among the lower-income economies globally. The capital, Damascus, is the political, economic and cultural centre of the country.
📊 Population at a Glance
About Syria's Population
With a population of 21.3M, Syria is home to a significant number of people within its 185,180 km² of territory. The population density of 115/km² reflects how people are distributed across the country: a moderate density typical of many countries in the region.
The capital city, Damascus, serves as the administrative, cultural and economic heart of Syria. Syria has a coastline of 193 km, which has historically attracted settlement and shaped where the majority of the population lives and works.
In economic terms, Syria has a total GDP of $11.1B (est.), translating to $521 (est.) per person. This figure gives a broad indication of average living standards, though income distribution varies considerably across different regions and communities within the country. The official currency is the Syrian Pound (SYP).
Syria gained independence in 1946 and has since developed a distinct national identity shaped by its geography, history and culture. The official language is Arabic, which is spoken by the vast majority of the population in daily life, education and government.
Within the Middle East region, Syria sits alongside Jordan (10.2M), United Arab Emirates (9.8M), Iran (87.9M). This regional context helps illustrate how Syria's population size compares to its neighbours.
Frequently Asked Questions about Syria's Population
What is the population of Syria in 2026?
The population of Syria is approximately 21.3M people as of 2026.
What is the capital city of Syria?
The capital city of Syria is Damascus, which serves as the country's main administrative and cultural hub.
How densely populated is Syria?
Syria has a population density of 115/km². This is a moderate population density.
What is the GDP per capita of Syria?
Syria has a GDP per capita of $521 (est.), with a total GDP of $11.1B (est.). This gives an indication of average economic output per person.
What language do people speak in Syria?
The official language of Syria is Arabic.
How big is Syria?
Syria covers a total area of 185,180 km². With a population of 21.3M, that gives a density of 115/km².
When did Syria gain independence?
Syria gained independence in 1946.
What currency is used in Syria?
The official currency of Syria is the Syrian Pound (SYP).
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