Introduction

Geography of Duhok governorate

On 29th of May 1969 Duhok became a governorate. It is located in the northwest of Iraq and at the north of all Iraqi governorates. Having borders with three countries (Iraq, Turkey, and Syria) and being one of the main trading centers, Duhok is considered an important governorate of Kurdistan Region.

Duhok is located among mountains and valleys. The transverse line 43 passes through Duhok city dividing it into two parts. Duhok governorate is divided into 7 districts: Duhok, Zakho, Akre, Amedi, Semel, Shekhan and Bardarash

Duhok City

The city center is considered the center for the whole governorate and not only for the city. The area of Duhok district is nearly 107 Km2 and the population is about 256167. There are 7 villages in the outskirts of the city: Nizarke, Shindokha, Gavarke, Upper and Lower Malta, Shakhke and Baroshke. Owing to the rapid expansion the city is witnessing nowadays, these villages are being gradually blended into it’s own centre. The two subdistricts of Zawita and Doski are related to Duhok district.

Demographic Overview

• In 1977, the population of Duhok governorate was 250167 citizens, and the area was 6374 Km2
• In 1987, the population was 293304 citizens and the area was 6553 Km2
• In 1996, the population of the governorate (according to the estimation of FAW organization) was 720943 citizens. After Akre and Shekhan districts were added to the governorate, the area became 10715 Km2
• In 2006 the population was 942267 citizens.