Great Zab

Quick Facts

• Type: River
• Length: About about 400 km
• Source: Eastern Turkey
• Mouth: Tigris River south of Mosul

Overview

The Great Zab is a principal tributary of the Tigris, flowing from the mountains of eastern Turkey into northern Iraq. It is one of the most important rivers in the Kurdistan Region, carving deep valleys and feeding irrigation systems.

Its flow is vital for agriculture and hydropower in the northern plains.

Landscape and Culture

The Great Zab’s basin includes high mountain terrain, wooded valleys, and farmlands. Communities along the river depend on its seasonal flow for crops and water supply.

Notes

The river is crossed by the historic Pira Delal bridge near Zakho.