ECONOMY

   The economy of Safita is based mainly on agriculture as there are over one million olive trees divided among the various families of the town. The residents work hard to cultivate them. They produce the best olive oil in Syria using the oil presses that have been developed all over the prefecture. The biggest quantity of olive oil is consumed in the country but the rest is exported. Moreover figs, abricots, medlars, river apples (a rare type of apple), lemons and grapes are produced in remarkable quantities. Characteristically there are pergolas in the courtyard of the houses. During the last years greenhouses have been developed in the valley of Akar and in the coastal area of the Tartus prefecture. The town has been commercially developed because of the demand of goods and services from the neighbouring settlements. The population of these settlements amounts to 200.000 residents, distributed in more than 200 villages. They gather in the market place of Safita where they sell their rural products and purchase other products for their basic needs. Of these 60% are public employees and rest 40% includes craftsmen such as carpenters, blacksmiths and builders, whose work made Safita famous for the white stones of its houses and the very beautiful stone buildings. In the nearby villages there are stock breeder units.
   It is considered one of the most important touristic centres of Syria as it has five stars hotels, cafeterias and restaurants serving the delicious cuisine of Safita. In small distance from the town the touristic grouth is rapid as there are impressive green forests with various vegetation and abundant water sources. The tourists escape stress of everyday routine and enjoy clean air, a wonderful view and an all-nightlong amusement with dances and songs. Popular and traditional touristic centres in the region are Al Mashta, Kafroun and Mraize.