Şanlıurfa stands out economically as one of the most important centers of Turkey's Southeastern Anatolia Region. The city's economy is largely based on agriculture, animal husbandry and, more recently, the growing tourism sector. Agriculture plays a central role in the economic life of Şanlıurfa; thanks to its vast fertile soils, many agricultural products such as wheat, cotton, corn and soy are successfully grown. Livestock breeding is also an important source of income, especially sheep and goat breeding. Irrigation projects, especially the investments realized within the scope of GAP (Southeastern Anatolia Project), have increased the agricultural capacity of the region and enabled the diversification of agricultural production.
The tourism sector is another important economic sector that has been developing with the discovery of Şanlıurfa's globally recognized historical sites such as Göbekli Tepe. These historical and cultural heritages attract local and foreign tourists. With the development of tourism, job opportunities have increased in areas such as accommodation, food and beverage and guide services. In addition, small-scale initiatives such as the production and sale of souvenirs in connection with tourism also contribute to the economy.
Şanlıurfa also has an industrial sector, but this sector does not occupy as significant a place in the city economy as agriculture and tourism. Small and medium-sized industrial enterprises operate mainly in food processing and textiles. The region also has potential for growth in the energy sector, particularly in the use of renewable energy sources. Solar and biomass energy projects are being supported and developed at local and national level.
As for employment opportunities, work opportunities in Şanlıurfa are mostly based on the sectors mentioned above. The agriculture and livestock sector provides jobs for a large number of local people, while the tourism sector also creates temporary and seasonal jobs, especially during the tourism season. Education and health services also form an important part of employment in Şanlıurfa. However, given the young and fast growing population, the unemployment rate in the city can be high and economic opportunities are limited. This calls for more education and vocational training programs, especially among young people, but also for more efforts by the local government and the private sector to create jobs and promote economic development.