Display omitted •Synthetic methods for obtaining hydroxyapatite are reviewed.•The structure-reactivity studies of hydroxyapatite as related to catalysis performances are discussed.•The catalytic applications of hydroxyapatite are introduced and discussed. The synthesis of hydroxyapatite (HAP) and its applications in heterogeneous catalysis are abridged in view of its demonstrated prowess and utility in chemical, material and industrial industry. This overview documents the strengths and weaknesses of the synthetic routes that have been applied to the synthesis of hydroxyapatite with description of salient structural properties of hydroxyapatite responsible for its reactivity. The significant applications of hydroxyapatite both, as an inorganic support and as a catalyst are described with an emphasis on its performance, stability and reusability. Several newer findings as well as the current challenges pertaining to the use of hydoxyapetite are summarized.