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Haditha Dam

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Haditha Dam is a massive hydroelectric dam situated on the Euphrates River in western Iraq, located in the Anbar Governorate near the city of Haditha. Constructed between 1977 and 1988 with technical assistance from the Soviet Union and Yugoslavia, it stands as the second-largest dam in Iraq after the Mosul Dam. The primary functions of the dam include electricity generation, flood control, and the provision of water for regional irrigation systems. The structure impounds the Euphrates to create Lake Qadisiyah, a vast reservoir that provides essential water security for the surrounding arid lands. The dam's hydroelectric plant features six turbines with a total installed capacity of approximately 660 megawatts. Given its strategic importance, the dam was a key military objective during the Iraq War and subsequent conflicts but sustained minimal structural damage. The facility incorporates an extensive network of tunnels and spillways designed for precise water management. Today, the Haditha Dam remains a critical component of Iraq's national infrastructure, regulating the flow of the lower Euphrates and ensuring agricultural stability in the southern provinces.

Location: Iraq
Nearby: Hit (69 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Oct.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	8	10	16	21	28	33	35	35	31	25	15	9
Rain mm	16	13	14	13	4	0	0	0	0	5	11	12

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

Spanning the mighty Euphrates River, this monumental infrastructure is a cornerstone of the nation's energy generation and flood management strategy. It stands as the second largest hydroelectric facility in the country, significantly powering continuous regional development.

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Visiting

Access to the core operational facilities and the immediate dam structure is typically restricted to authorized personnel due to strict security measures. However, travelers can usually view the impressive concrete walls and the vast reservoir from designated external points.

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Where to view it

The sheer scale of the engineering marvel is best appreciated from the surrounding elevated public roads or the banks of the artificial Lake Qadisiyah. Watching the water flow during controlled releases provides a particularly dramatic visual experience from afar.

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Local products

While not a traditional commercial zone, the areas surrounding the expansive reservoir often feature local fishermen providing fresh freshwater catches. Modest roadside stalls in nearby settlements might offer basic refreshments and simple regional agricultural goods.

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Active season

The imposing structure is fully operational throughout the year, but the surrounding natural landscapes are most pleasant to observe during the cooler spring and autumn months. Early mornings often provide a serene atmosphere with calm waters and highly favorable lighting.

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Nearby

Touring the general vicinity of the dam pairs well with exploring the historical towns positioned along the Euphrates riverbanks. Traveling further into the Anbar province allows visitors to experience the region's deep historical roots and distinct desert geography.

Geography

Coordinates

34.20000, 42.36000

Facts

The total length of the dam's crest is approximately 9 kilometers.
The dam reaches a maximum height of 57 meters above the riverbed.
Lake Qadisiyah has a maximum storage capacity of 8.3 cubic kilometers.
Soviet engineers were responsible for the design of the hydroelectric station.
The entire project was officially completed in 1988.
The dam features a spillway equipped with six large radial gates.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Hit69 km · NWExplore →

Al-Jazira Plateau77 km · SEExplore →

Lake Tharthar103 km · NExplore →

Makhoul Mountains119 km · NEExplore →

Hatra120 km · EExplore →

Ramadi123 km · NWExplore →

Hamrin Mountains129 km · NExplore →

Baiji139 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of the Haditha Dam?

It serves for hydroelectric power generation and regulation of the Euphrates River.

Is the reservoir accessible to tourists?

Access is strictly controlled; however, local excursions are possible with coordination.

How large is the power plant?

It has six Kaplan turbines with a total capacity of 660 megawatts.

Are there hotels there?

There are simple accommodations in Haditha city, but no tourist resorts at the dam.

When was the dam built?

It was built in the 1970s and '80s with assistance from the Soviet Union.

Haditha Dam: where is it located?

Haditha Dam is located in Iraq.

Haditha Dam: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Apr, Oct.

Haditha Dam: why is it worth visiting?

The Haditha Dam is a massive hydroelectric dam situated on the Euphrates River in western Iraq, located in the Anbar Governorate near the city of Haditha.

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