Al-Anbar's Rutba district could leverage water, energy and tourism resources for development

ANBAR, Iraq — Rutba district in western Anbar province possesses natural and economic assets including groundwater reserves, the Horan Dam, large agricultural lands and proximity to border crossings, according to district governor Imad al-Rashawi. Speaking to reporters, al-Rashawi said the district's location, large area and environmental diversity give it significant economic and development characteristics. He listed the Horan Dam, underground wells, 400 megawatts of electricity capacity, a high-capacity power transmission line and an international highway passing through the area. Al-Rashawi also pointed to raw materials near Kashat, Asiyat and Ardam, including salkha (soda ash), phosphate, iron ore and dyes used in the production of solar panel glass. Economist Ahmed Karbuli said the groundwater and Horan Dam could support modern irrigation techniques to expand agriculture and livestock farming, while phosphate and iron could be processed locally to add value. Karbuli stressed that despite high solar irradiation and extensive land, the district needs sustained infrastructure, stable services and clear administrative facilities to attract investment. Rutba is also noted for historic caravan routes, natural diversity and desert-ecology tourism potential.