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Mosul Dam

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

energy

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The Mosul Dam, formerly known as the Saddam Dam, is the largest dam in Iraq, located on the Tigris River approximately 50 kilometers north of the city of Mosul. Built in the 1980s by a German-Italian consortium, the dam serves critical roles in power generation, irrigation, and flood control. Its hydroelectric power station, with a capacity exceeding 1,000 megawatts, is a cornerstone of the national energy grid. A unique and persistent challenge for the dam is its foundation, which was constructed on water-soluble gypsum rock. This geological condition necessitates round-the-clock grouting operations, where cement is injected into the foundation to fill voids and ensure structural integrity. International experts have frequently labeled it the most dangerous dam in the world due to the potential risk of failure from these unstable foundations. Despite these risks, the dam remains vital for agriculture in the Nineveh plains and regulates the Tigris water levels as far downstream as Baghdad. Extensive stabilization projects have been carried out in recent years with international cooperation to mitigate safety concerns.

Location: Iraq
Top sights: Kharab Walad · Village of mustah
Nearby: Zakho (44 km)

Best time to visit & climate

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

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	6	8	13	18	25	31	35	35	30	23	14	8
Rain mm	47	42	54	47	19	3	1	1	2	21	32	47

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Mosul Dam is the largest dam in Iraq, situated on the Tigris River, serving an immense regional role. It is critically important for flood control, agricultural irrigation, and generating electrical power.

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Visiting

As a highly strategic infrastructure project, the dam area is typically subject to strict security protocols. Direct visitation of the internal operational facilities or the power turbines is normally not permitted.

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Where to view it

The vast scale of the reservoir and the dam structure itself can best be observed from surrounding public vantage points. From a safe distance on nearby roads or hills, the immense concrete construction is clearly visible.

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Local products

Thanks to the irrigation provided by the dam, agricultural activities in the wider region yield various fresh local products. Travelers can often find seasonal vegetables and fruits in the markets of nearby villages.

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Active season

The most impressive water flows are typically observed in the spring, when melting snows significantly swell the Tigris River. However, power generation and water management operations are continuously active year-round.

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Nearby

A trip to view the dam can easily be combined with a visit to the historic city of Mosul and its heritage sites. Exploring the rural landscapes along the banks of the Tigris River is also highly worthwhile.

Geography

Coordinates

36.63000, 42.82000

Facts

The maximum height of the dam is 113 meters.
The reservoir has a maximum storage capacity of 11.1 cubic kilometers.
Construction began in 1981 and was completed in 1986.
The Italian consortium GIE-Impregilo led the construction efforts.
Tons of cement mixture are pumped into the foundation every single day.
The dam spans a total length of approximately 3.4 kilometers.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mosul Dam Lake<1 km · SEExplore →

Dream City Dohuk26 km · NEExplore →

Dohuk Dam Park28 km · NEExplore →

Al-Qosh32 km · NExplore →

Great Mosque of al-Nuri41 km · NWExplore →

Nineveh43 km · NWExplore →

Zawita Forest43 km · NEExplore →

Delal Bridge43 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

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

Sights in the town Mosul Dam (2)

Kharab Walad🏺 historical

These ancient ruins are situated on the fertile banks near the Mosul Dam.

Village of mustah📍 landmark

A traditional settlement offering wide views over the Mosul Dam reservoir.

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Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is the Mosul Dam so well known?

It is Iraq's largest dam, but also notorious for its unstable foundation.

Can you visit the crest of the dam?

Access is closed to the public for security reasons.

How far is the dam from Mosul?

It is located about 50 kilometers north of the city on the Tigris River.

Are there fishing tours there?

There are no official tours, but local fishermen use the massive reservoir.

What would happen in case of a dam failure?

There would be a catastrophic flood wave along the Tigris down to Baghdad.

Mosul Dam: where is it located?

Mosul Dam is located in Iraq.

Mosul Dam: what is there to see?

Highlights include Kharab Walad, Village of mustah.

Mosul Dam: when is the best time to visit?

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

Mosul Dam: why is it worth visiting?

The Mosul Dam, formerly known as the Saddam Dam, is the largest dam in Iraq, located on the Tigris River approximately 50 kilometers north of the city of Mosul.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →