The Syrian General Authority for Radio and Television announced the launch of “Al-Souriya” TV channel on Thursday morning, February 19, coinciding with the first day of Ramadan.

Syrian Minister of Information Hamza al-Mustafa said in a post on X that the launch of Al-Souriya came after months of intensive work, presenting the channel with a completely new identity and format.

According to the minister, the project is part of a comprehensive vision to develop Syrian media on professional and objective foundations that keep pace with ongoing developments.

“Embracing Everyone”

For his part, the director of Al-Souriya, Bani Faroun, said the channel’s message stems from the family and society, carrying the slogan “Embracing Everyone.”

Faroun explained that the content will cover issues that matter to the Syrian family and reflect the diversity of society and its concerns, both inside the country and abroad.

Broadcast hours will include cultural and artistic programs aimed at reviving Syrian heritage and highlighting the creativity of Syrians in various fields, alongside social programs that discuss citizens’ issues and entertainment segments targeting all family members.

The channel will broadcast via the Nilesat satellite on frequency 11938, using modern technologies to ensure high-quality audio and visual output and comprehensive coverage across different Syrian regions, according to the channel’s management.

In turn, the director general of the General Authority for Radio and Television, Alaa Barsilo, said the channel seeks to convey citizens’ voices to relevant authorities through a range of social, service-oriented, economic, and agricultural programs, without overlooking political, intellectual, and literary issues. He added that the channel aims to enhance communication among Syrians inside and outside the country and achieve a balance between culture, knowledge, and entertainment while preserving family values.

According to Programs Director Moataz Obeid, the Ramadan launch will focus on special programming for the holy month, including competitions, artistic evenings, and various religious programs. After Ramadan, a broader programming cycle will follow, covering different aspects of Syrian life, as reported by the Syrian Arab News Agency, SANA.

Programming and Drama Lineup

Al-Souriya’s Ramadan drama schedule includes ten productions spanning social drama, comedy, and Damascene-era dramas.

The series are: “Watan Ala al-Watar,” “Areen al-Dhiab,” “Bayt al-Ahlam,” “Adam al-Muakhaza,” “Al-Maqad al-Akhir,” “Ailat al-Malik,” “Ya Ana Ya Hiya,” “Al-Yateem,” “Shams al-Aseel,” and “Al-Nuwailati.”

The Ramadan lineup is expected to include “Stories and Lessons,” “Aqwam Qeela,” “Ramadan Illumination,” “Delivery al-Khair,” religious fatwa programs, a cooking show, and a pre-iftar religious program.

During iftar, the schedule will feature a religious musical piece and the Maghrib call to prayer, along with a hakawati storytelling segment, competitions, “Ramadan Tent,” cultural interludes, and “Dousheesh.”

Expanding the Media Landscape

The launch of Al-Souriya comes after the relaunch of Radio Damascus in its new format on February 4, marking its 79th anniversary.

It also follows the launch of “al-Ikhbariya” on May 5, 2025, as the first state-run media outlet after the fall of the Assad regime.