DCT Abu Dhabi Reveals First Major Iron Age Cemetery In Al Ain Region, Transforming Understanding Of Ancient Heritage

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has revealed a significant archaeological find in the UAE: the first major Iron Age cemetery. Located in the Al Ain Region, this 3,000-year-old necropolis was uncovered by DCT Abu Dhabi’s Archaeology Section. The site is believed to contain over a hundred tombs filled with grave goods, shedding light on a previously unknown aspect of the UAE's rich history.

Jaber Saleh Al Merri, Director of the Historic Environment Department at DCT Abu Dhabi, stated, "This discovery promises to transform our understanding of the ancient Emirates. For years, the Iron Age burial traditions remained a mystery, but now we have tangible evidence that brings us closer to the people who lived here 3,000 years ago. It reinforces our efforts to preserve, promote, and protect Abu Dhabi’s heritage for future generations." This find supports ongoing efforts to understand the Arabian Peninsula's history and ancient communities.

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The tombs were constructed by digging a shaft about two metres deep before creating an oval burial chamber sideways. After placing bodies and grave goods inside, entrances were sealed with mudbricks or stones. The absence of surface markers explains why these tombs remained undiscovered until now. Some gold jewellery pieces survived looting attempts, hinting at what might have been present originally.

Among the burial items are intricately decorated objects showcasing high-quality craftsmanship in pottery, carved soft-stone, and metalwork. Drinking sets include spouted vessels and bowls alongside copper-alloy weaponry like spearheads and arrowheads. These often retain traces of wood and filaments from their shafts; one even preserves quiver remnants.

Personal items such as shell cosmetic containers, bead necklaces, bracelets, rings, and razors were also found. These artifacts provide insight into social dynamics during this period. The Iron Age marked significant developments in Al Ain's oasis landscape due to innovations like the falaj system—a type of underground aqueduct—leading to agricultural expansion.

Understanding Historical Context

Tatiana Valente from DCT Abu Dhabi noted that while Bronze Age and Late Pre-Islamic burial customs are known, Iron Age practices remained elusive until now. "We know how people in the Bronze Age and Late Pre-Islamic period buried their dead," she said. "But the Iron Age has always been a missing part of the puzzle."

The Funerary Landscapes of Al Ain Project initiated in 2024 aims to explore prehistoric tombs discovered during construction monitoring. This project aligns with DCT Abu Dhabi’s dedication to researching Al Ain's UNESCO World Heritage Site status since its 2011 inscription for outstanding universal value.

Forensic archaeologists are carefully handling fragile human remains found at this site using laboratory analysis techniques that will reveal age, gender information along with ancient DNA insights into family relationships or migration patterns across regions.

This discovery enhances understanding not only about burial customs but also offers glimpses into economic activities prevalent during those times through preserved artifacts reflecting daily life aspects among ancient communities residing within UAE borders centuries ago.

With inputs from WAM