Unearthing History: Recent Archaeological Finds Illuminate Ancient Treasures Across UAE

Exciting discoveries have emerged from recent archaeological excavations across the United Arab Emirates, offering fresh perspectives on the region's rich historical tapestry. In Umm Al Quwain, a trove of artifacts has been unearthed, including imitation Roman gold coins dating back to the first century AD. These coins, possibly locally minted, underscore the extensive trade networks flourishing around the Gulf millennia ago. Furthermore, findings of what appears to be a pre-Islamic shrine and stone inscriptions at Tell Abraq suggest a thriving settlement in ancient times, enhancing our understanding of Umm Al Quwain's pivotal role in the region's history. This season's revelations contribute to the emirate's growing reputation as a hub of historical significance, building upon previous discoveries such as an ancient pearling village and a Christian monastery.

Archaeologists in Abu Dhabi have unveiled a trove of ancient treasures dating back to 1300 BCE, shedding new light on the region's pre-Islamic history. The Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT Abu Dhabi) revealed the remarkable finds, which include ceramics, bronze bowls, and an array of weaponry such as arrows, spears, and swords. The discoveries were made during excavations of a late Pre-Islamic cemetery in the Shaabiya neighborhood of Al Ain, conducted as part of infrastructure upgrades in the area.

The excavation unearthed around 20 individual graves, offering insights into the material culture and burial practices of the ancient inhabitants. Among the finds were intact amphorae, glass and alabaster vessels, and a remarkably well-preserved 70cm long sword. The presence of these artifacts suggests the existence of a settlement nearby during the same period, with the discovery of deep underground water channels providing further evidence of the region's historical significance.

Beyond the cemetery site, additional treasures have been uncovered along an 11.5km stretch in the Al Khrais area. These include an Iron Age cemetery featuring a monumental stone tomb and over 35 graves, as well as pre-Islamic tombs containing caches of iron weaponry. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, emphasized the importance of these discoveries in enriching our understanding of the region's past and highlighted ongoing efforts to preserve and study Abu Dhabi's cultural heritage through collaboration with educational institutes and governmental organizations.

Archaeologists have uncovered a significant historical site on Siniyah Island in Umm al-Quwain, United Arab Emirates, revealing what they believe to be the oldest pearling town in the Gulf region. Situated off one of the northern sheikhdoms of the UAE, this discovery sheds new light on the pre-Islamic history of the area, with artifacts dating back to the late sixth century. The town, likely once a bustling hub for pearl diving, provides valuable insights into ancient maritime trade and culture in the Persian Gulf.

Siniyah Island, known for its strategic location guarding the Khor al-Beida marshlands, has already yielded archaeological treasures, including an ancient Christian monastery dating back nearly 1,400 years. The pearling town, nestled south of the monastery, spans approximately 12 hectares and features a variety of homes constructed from beach rock and lime mortar. These dwellings, ranging from modest quarters to more elaborate structures with courtyards, hint at a complex social hierarchy and permanent settlement, unlike seasonal pearling operations elsewhere in the region.

The discovery of loose pearls and diving weights within the town's dwellings suggests that its inhabitants were skilled free divers, possibly Christians predating the spread of Islam in the Arabian Peninsula. According to Timothy Power, an associate professor of archaeology at the United Arab Emirates University, this finding represents a significant milestone in understanding the Gulf region's ancient history. The pearling town, often referred to as the "spiritual ancestor" of modern cities like Dubai, underscores the rich cultural heritage of the area and its enduring maritime traditions.

Archaeologists in Umm Al Quwain, UAE, have unearthed a trove of artifacts during this season's dig, shedding new light on the emirate's rich history. Among the most significant finds were imitation Roman gold coins dating back to the first century AD. These coins, likely minted locally or regionally, highlight the global trade networks that existed around the Gulf 2,000 years ago.

The dig also uncovered what is believed to be a pre-Islamic shrine and open-air altar, along with a stone slab inscribed in Aramaic. These discoveries suggest a flourishing settlement at Tell Abraq, the archaeological site where the dig took place.

This season's finds add to Umm Al Quwain's growing reputation as a center of historical significance. Previous excavations have uncovered an ancient pearling village and a Christian monastery, further establishing the emirate's role in the region's development. The latest discoveries promise to further enrich our understanding of the UAE's past.

New analysis of burial sites in Al Ain, presented at the 2023 Archaeology Conference in Abu Dhabi, revealed fascinating insights into the region's ancient past. Archaeologist Peter Sheehan discussed first-century BCE tombs, offering a glimpse into the interconnectedness between Al Ain and the Mediterranean. These findings not only hint at a settlement nearby but also underscore the historical significance of Al Ain Oasis, now a UNESCO world heritage site, suggesting its development during this period. The discovery of makeup applicators, glass bottles, and Roman-style amphora drinking vessels in the tombs speaks volumes about the trade networks and cultural exchanges of the time.

Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, hailed these discoveries as illuminating the Gulf's hidden narratives and enriching our understanding of ancient burial practices. The conference, themed '2,500 years of Prosperity, Exchange and Openness', showcased not only Al Ain's revelations but also findings from Mleiha in Sharjah and Siniya Island in Umm Al Quwain. Dr. Bruno Overlaet's presentation on the Mleiha site highlighted a bronze bowl with diverse iconography, echoing the cosmopolitan nature of trade during that era. Meanwhile, discoveries on Siniya Island unveiled a potential link to the lost town of Tu’am, shedding light on the region's pearling heritage and early Christian presence.

Zayed National Museum, committed to preserving the UAE's heritage, spearheaded the conference, aligning with its mission to honor Sheikh Zayed's legacy. Through research and public programs, the museum seeks to celebrate the UAE's culture and values, fostering global exchange and knowledge creation. Supported by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, these endeavors reflect Abu Dhabi's commitment to cultural preservation and sustainable tourism, driving the emirate towards its broader global aspirations.

Gold earring from a late pre-Islamic grave at Al Ain Museum (L) and Ceramics found at Siniya Island, Umm Al Quwain

The recent archaeological endeavors in Abu Dhabi, Umm Al Quwain, and Al Ain stand as testament to the enduring quest to unravel the mysteries of the UAE's ancient past. From the unveiling of a Late Pre-Islamic cemetery in Al Ain, replete with ceramic artifacts and weaponry dating back to 1300 BCE, to the discovery of what is believed to be the oldest pearling town in the Gulf region on Siniyah Island, these findings offer invaluable insights into the region's cultural evolution. Moreover, the unearthing of imitation Roman coins in Umm Al Quwain and the presentation of burial site analyses at the Archaeology Conference in Abu Dhabi shed light on the extensive trade networks and historical connections that shaped the UAE's early civilizations. As these discoveries continue to captivate the imagination and enrich our understanding of the past, they also underscore the importance of preserving and celebrating the UAE's cultural heritage for generations to come. Supported by institutions like the Zayed National Museum and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, these efforts not only honor the legacy of the country's founders but also propel the nation towards its broader aspirations on the global stage.