Today's Edition
AMEINAH ALZEYOUDI (ABU DHABI)
The recently unearthed Iron Age cemetery in Al Ain is proving to be a treasure trove of archaeological information — and it could be just the beginning of more groundbreaking discoveries about life in the region more than 3,000 years ago, a top official from the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT) told Aletihad.
There could be more such ancient burial sites waiting to be discovered across the country, said Abdulla Khalfan Al Kaabi, Development Control and Documentation Section Head at the Historic Environment Department, DCT – Abu Dhabi.
“Given the density of Iron Age settlements across the UAE, it’s plausible that similar burial sites exist but have yet to be discovered,” he told Aletihad.
Al Kaabi emphasised that the Al Ain discovery addresses a critical gap in scientific knowledge.
“While numerous Iron Age sites are scattered across the country, cemeteries from this era remain extremely rare. This adds exceptional value to the finding,” Al Kaabi said in an interview with Aletihad.
The artefacts that have been recovered from the necropolis highlight both the material culture and the symbolic expressions of the Iron Age society.
Among the most striking burial items are: gold beads; copper-alloy weapons, including spearheads and arrowheads; decorated soft-stone vessels; shell cosmetic containers; and personal adornments, such as bead necklaces, rings, and bracelets.
One particularly remarkable find is a unique copper cup adorned with bird motifs, a piece believed to carry both artistic and symbolic importance.
“These items reflect the craftsmanship, social complexity, and trade connections of Iron Age communities,” Al Kaabi said.
More Hidden Tombs
The cemetery was hidden underground, with no surface markers to indicate its presence. The tombs were constructed using a vertical shaft design, approximately two-metres deep, leading to oval-shaped burial chambers. Once the deceased and their grave goods were placed inside, the entrances were sealed with mudbricks or stones and then backfilled, leaving no visible trace on the surface.
This lack of markers not only contributed to the cemetery remaining undetected until now but also suggested that more such tombs may lie hidden in the area.
Unlocking Ancient Secrets
The excavation holds profound potential for reconstructing the lives of Iron Age individuals. Anthropological and genetic studies will be essential in unlocking the secrets of this ancient community. Through these analyses, experts aim to determine ancestry, familial ties, health status, dietary habits, and causes of death.
When combined with findings from other Iron Age sites across the region, the data from Al Ain offers a broader comparative framework. This will help researchers understand population dynamics, cultural practices, and inter-regional connections across the Arabian Peninsula during the Iron Age.
Given the fragility of the remains and artefacts, meticulous excavation and conservation techniques are being employed. Strati-graphic excavation ensures the preservation of context, while micro-excavation and the use of fine tools prevent damage to delicate items. Artefacts are stabilised using approved conservation materials and stored in controlled environments to ensure their long-term preservation.
Public Outreach
Select pieces are being prepared for display in museums, aligning with each exhibition’s curatorial vision. However, not all items are immediately showcased; many are reserved for continued scientific analysis. This dual approach balances public education with academic advancement.
Public outreach remains a key priority for DCT – Abu Dhabi. One standout initiative is the “Open Day” programme, which invites schools and the general public to visit active excavation sites. These visits offer an interactive learning experience and foster greater appreciation for the UAE’s archaeological heritage.
The discovery adds another chapter to Al Ain’s already rich historical narrative. In 2011, the cultural sites of Al Ain were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List for their Outstanding Universal Value, as they chronicle human settlement and adaptation across millennia.
“This discovery not only enriches our understanding of the Iron Age but also reinforces Al Ain’s importance as a continuous hub of cultural development,” said Al Kaabi. “It underscores the UAE’s ongoing commitment to preserving its heritage and advancing scientific research.”
As further excavations and studies continue, this Iron Age cemetery stands as a testament to the UAE’s enduring legacy and the remarkable history buried beneath its sands, waiting to be uncovered and shared with the world.
