The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi unveils a cemetery in the Al Ain area dating back to the Late Bronze Age

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi announced the discovery of a cemetery dating back to the Wadi Suq era and the Late Bronze Age (about 2000-1300 BC), within the Qattara archaeological site in the Al Ain region, which opens new horizons for understanding the social and cultural transformations that the region witnessed during prehistoric times.

This important archaeological discovery provides in-depth insights into the continuity of cultural practices and the ability of ancient societies in the Arabian Peninsula to adapt and innovate. It also contributes to enhancing understanding of the ancient cultural heritage of the Al Ain region, and confirms its status as a site included on the UNESCO World Heritage List, which played a pivotal role in the emergence and development of civilizations over thousands of years.

The Qattara Archaeological Site, known for its exceptional richness and diverse historical evidence, is considered one of the most prominent archaeological sites in the United Arab Emirates, as it has witnessed over the decades a series of important discoveries dating back to multiple historical periods, including mass burials from the Wadi Suq era, and tower burials from later periods.

The latest discovery is distinguished by its unique state of preservation and exceptional architectural style, as it was built using stone blocks repurposed from older funerary structures dating back to the Umm an-Nar civilization (ca. 2700-2000 BC).

And he said Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi Mohammed Khalifa Al Mubarak: This discovery represents a unique window into one of the oldest stages of the history of the United Arab Emirates, as it allows us a deeper understanding of the societies that lived on this land and contributed to shaping their cultural identity. These archaeological discoveries confirm the importance of continuing our efforts in preserving and protecting cultural heritage, strengthening our connection to the foundational stages that made the features of our society, and calling on future generations to be inspired by the values of flexibility, the ability to adapt, and the spirit of initiative that formed an integral part of the human journey in this region, and through the commitment of the Department of Culture. Tourism – Abu Dhabi By preserving and preserving the cultural heritage of the emirate, we continue to reveal the stories of this land and share them with the world, in a way that enhances awareness of its human and cultural value.

Excavations revealed an underground cemetery extending approximately 11 meters long and 2.5 meters wide. It was used to bury hundreds of individuals over a period of at least 1,000 years, starting from the Wadi Suq period until the Iron Age. It is likely that the design of the entrance facing east allowed sunlight to penetrate into the cemetery during funeral rituals, in a symbolic significance linked to the concepts of renewal and continuity of life. A huge stone door, weighing more than 200 kilograms, was found and reshaped. From an older monument, forming a symbolic separation between the worlds of the living and the ancestors.

The excavations also resulted in the discovery of a rich collection of funerary finds, including pottery, weapons, and personal ornaments, providing important evidence about the social practices and beliefs prevailing during that era.

These finds, along with human remains, are subject to specialized studies conducted by archaeologists and bone experts at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, using the latest scientific techniques, including stable isotope analysis and ancient DNA analysis, with the aim of exploring lifestyles, health, transportation, and trade networks among ancient societies.

This prominent discovery reinforces the commitment of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi to its mission to protect, preserve and publicize the cultural heritage of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, and consolidates the position of the Al Ain region as an ancient cultural center that has contributed to shaping the history of the region over thousands of years.

A display of the artifacts discovered in the cemetery dating back to the Late Bronze Age will be displayed in Abu Dhabi Museums, giving the public the opportunity to explore this pivotal stage in the history of the United Arab Emirates and learn about its human and cultural dimensions.