Situated in the southern region of Turkey, at the heart of the Amik valley, the Metropolitan City of Hatay acknowledges a multicultural identity inherited from its location on the ancient Silk Road.

Hatay is a city located in the southeastern region of Turkey, close to the border with Syria. The city has a rich history and cultural heritage, having been inhabited by various civilizations throughout its history. It is known for its diverse cultural and religious traditions, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Hatay is also known for its stunning natural landscapes, which include the Mediterranean coastline, the Nur Mountains, and the Orontes River. The city's diverse geography has given rise to a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, and bird-watching. 

Another highlight of Hatay is its cuisine, which is a fusion of Turkish, Arabic, and Mediterranean flavours. The city is famous for its meze, a selection of small dishes served as appetizers, and its kebabs, which are grilled over open flames. Other popular dishes include hummus, kibbeh, and muhammara, a spicy dip made from roasted red peppers and walnuts. 

In addition to its cultural, natural, and culinary attractions, Hatay is also a hub for commerce and trade. The city is home to several industrial zones, and its location near the Syrian border makes it an important gateway for trade between Turkey and the Middle East. 

One of the most striking features of Hatay is its mix of cultural and religious traditions. The city has been home to various civilizations throughout history, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans, and each has left its mark on the city's architecture and culture. Additionally, the city is home to a diverse population of Muslims, Christians, and Jews, who coexist peacefully and celebrate each other's traditions.

• In 2017, the GDP of Hatay was approximately 18.3 billion Turkish Lira (around 4.7 billion US dollars). The economy of Hatay is largely based on agriculture, tourism, and trade. The agricultural sector contributes significantly to the city's economy, with crops such as citrus fruits, olives, and cotton being major products. 
• The tourism industry in Hatay is also significant, with the city attracting visitors with its historical and cultural sites, natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine. The city is also an important trade hub, with its location near the Syrian border allowing for trade between Turkey and the Middle East. 
• Despite its economic potential, Hatay faces challenges related to unemployment and underemployment, particularly among young people and women. The local government has implemented policies to support the city's economy, such as investments in infrastructure, education, and entrepreneurship.

The municipal administration of Hatay is organized into various departments, each responsible for a specific area of public service. For example, the Department of Public Works is responsible for maintaining the city's infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and public buildings. The Department of Health is responsible for providing healthcare services to the city's residents, while the Department of Education is responsible for managing the city's schools and promoting literacy and education. 

The municipal administration of Hatay is also responsible for promoting the city's economic development. This includes attracting investment, promoting entrepreneurship, and supporting the growth of local industries such as agriculture, tourism, and trade. To ensure transparency and accountability in its operations, the municipal administration of Hatay is subject to regular audits and inspections by independent agencies. The administration also maintains an open-door policy, allowing citizens to voice their concerns and opinions on issues that affect their daily lives. 

In recent years, the municipal administration of Hatay has placed an increased focus on sustainable development, promoting environmental sustainability and social justice alongside economic growth. This includes initiatives to reduce carbon emissions, increase renewable energy use, and promote gender equality.

The agricultural sector is a major contributor to the economy of Hatay, accounting for a significant share of the city's GDP. The region's fertile soils and favourable climate make it well-suited for the cultivation of a variety of crops, including citrus fruits, olives, cotton, and other fruits and vegetables. The city is also home to a thriving livestock industry, with sheep, goats, and cattle being raised for meat and dairy products. 

The tourism industry is another important sector of the economy of Hatay. The city's rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine attract visitors from around the world. Tourist attractions in the city include the ancient ruins of the city of Antioch, the medieval castle of Koz Castle, and the beautiful Mediterranean coastline. In addition, the city's cuisine is renowned for its delicious meze, kebabs, and other local specialities, which attract food lovers from all over the world.

The city of Hatay is also an important trade hub, with its location near the Syrian border making it a strategic gateway for trade between Turkey and the Middle East. The city's port facilities, road networks, and airports make it well-connected to other parts of the country and the region, enabling the efficient movement of goods and people. Despite its economic potential, the city of Hatay faces challenges related to unemployment and underemployment, particularly among young people and women. The local government has implemented policies to address these challenges, including investments in education, infrastructure, and entrepreneurship. For example, the city has established business incubators and provided support for startups, with the goal of promoting innovation and creating new job opportunities.

In addition, the city of Hatay is committed to promoting sustainable development and environmental stewardship. The local government has implemented policies and programs to reduce carbon emissions, promote renewable energy use, and protect the city's natural resources.

The city's infrastructure includes transportation systems, utilities, and public facilities that are essential for daily life and economic development. Transportation is a crucial component of the infrastructure of Hatay. The city is served by several highways, including the E90 and D400 highways, which connect Hatay to other parts of Turkey and neighbouring countries. The city's airport, Hatay Airport, provides domestic and international air travel, while the port of Iskenderun on the Mediterranean coast serves as a gateway for maritime trade.

Within the city, public transportation is provided by buses and minibuses that operate on a network of routes throughout the city and its surrounding areas. The city has also invested in the construction of bicycle lanes and pedestrian walkways, promoting sustainable modes of transportation and reducing traffic congestion. 

Utilities such as electricity, water, and natural gas are provided to residents and businesses through a network of distribution systems. The city's electrical grid is connected to the national grid, providing reliable electricity to the city's residents and businesses. The city's water supply is sourced from nearby rivers and is treated at several water treatment plants, ensuring clean and safe drinking water for the population. The city of Hatay also has a well-developed healthcare system, with several public and private hospitals and clinics serving the needs of its residents. The city's main hospital, the Hatay State Hospital, is a modern facility that provides a wide range of medical services to the population.

Public facilities such as parks, sports facilities, and cultural centres are also an important part of the infrastructure of Hatay. The city has several parks and green spaces, including the Harbiye Selalesi National Park and the Arsuz Beach Park, which provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. The city also has several sports facilities, including the Hatay Atatürk Stadium and the Hatay Olympic Swimming Pool, which support the development of sports and athletics in the city.