Samarqand Region is the most populous region of Uzbekistan. It is located in the center of the country in the basin of the Zarafshan River. It borders Tajikistan, Navoiy Region, Jizzakh Region and Qashqadaryo Region. It covers an area of 16,773 km2. The population is estimated to be around 4,031,324, with some 63% living in rural areas. Samarqand Region was established on 15 January 1938, and is divided into 14 administrative districts and two district-level cities. The capital is Samarqand.