Hawija

Hawija (Arabic: الحويجة) is a town in southern Kirkūk Governorate, northern Iraq, about 45 km southwest of Kirkuk city. It is the centre of a predominantly Sunni Arab agricultural district, with extensive grain and date farms. The town gained international attention during the Iraq War and the later conflict against ISIS, when it became an insurgent stronghold and was the scene of heavy fighting. Reconstruction has been slow but steady. The surrounding landscape is dry, flat farmland. Summers are hot (40–45°C), winters cool. October–April is the best time.

By Plane

Kirkuk International Airport is about 55 km northeast (50 min by taxi, 20,000–35,000 IQD). Baghdad International Airport (BGW) is about 200 km south.

By Car / Road

Hawija is on the road from Kirkuk (45 km northeast, ~40 min) to Baqubah (100 km south, ~1.5 hr). Shared taxis connect to Kirkuk.

The town is compact. Taxis are the main local transport.

• Hawija Market: The central souk is the hub of local commerce.

• Agricultural Land: The surrounding wheat and barley fields are the region's economic backbone.

• Explore Kirkuk: The provincial capital with its citadel and markets is an easy day trip.

• Farm Visits: Agriculture remains the primary livelihood.

Simple Iraqi restaurants serve kebabs, tikka, and rice dishes.

Chai at market stalls. Bottled water essential.

• Budget: Basic rest houses (10,000–15,000 IQD).
• Mid-range: Hotels in Kirkuk (45 km northeast).

Grains and local produce at the market.

• Kirkuk (45 km northeast, ~40 min) — Provincial capital with the historic Kirkuk Citadel.
• Daquq (25 km north, ~25 min) — Agricultural town.
• Dibis (55 km north, ~50 min) — Dam town on the Little Zab River.
• Baqubah (100 km south, ~1.5 hr) — Capital of Diyala Governorate.
• Tuz Khurmatu (35 km east, ~35 min) — Multi-ethnic town in Salah ad Din Governorate.