Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi Highlights Archaeological Advances At Sharjah Symposium

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, the Chairperson of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), recently graced a scientific symposium at the headquarters of the Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA). This event, a collaborative effort with the University of Tübingen in Germany and the Senckenberg Society for Natural History, marked the 30th excavation season at Jebel Al Buhais and Jebel Faya in Sharjah. It drew attention to landscape archaeology, paleoenvironments, human adaptations, and dispersals across the Arab region, with participation from officials and experts from the UAE, Germany, Britain, France, Saudi Arabia, and Oman.

Dr. Sabah Aboud Jasim, an advisor to the SAA, expressed his appreciation for Sheikha Bodour's attendance and underscored the SAA's commitment to enhancing and safeguarding Sharjah's archaeological endeavors. Eisa Yousif, the Director General of the SAA, highlighted the authority's dedication to scientific studies, excavations, and documentation of archaeological sites within Sharjah. He pointed out significant discoveries at Jebel Faya, recognized as the oldest human site in the Arabian Peninsula, and Jebel Al Buhais, known for its extensive cemetery spanning various periods.

Dr. Jasim presented a paper focusing on the archaeological heritage and cultural landscape of Sharjah's central region. He emphasized Jebel Faya's significance as a pivotal Paleolithic site in the Arabian Peninsula. Research at Jebel Faya unveiled human settlements dating back 125,000 years ago under climatic conditions different from those previously assumed. This finding challenges established theories regarding human migration out of Africa during drought periods.

The symposium also shed light on Jebel Faya's role as a crossroads in early human migration history. The discovery of white limestone flakes and flint stones at the site indicated an abundance of raw materials for stone tool production. Additionally, discussions covered ancient landscapes of Jebel Faya and Jebel Al Buhais, alongside historical and environmental shifts in the UAE.

Experts from various universities and institutions contributed papers on topics including human evolution, Quaternary environments, ancient environmental changes in Sharjah and the UAE, development of oases, life along the Nile, and landscape archaeology in Sudan. The symposium wrapped up with a general discussion followed by a visit to Jebel Faya for further examination of archaeological materials.

The event underscored the SAA's efforts in preserving Sharjah's archaeological heritage and showcased significant findings at Jebel Faya and Jebel Al Buhais. It provided an invaluable platform for experts to explore various facets of human history, landscape archaeology, and climate change in the Arab region.

With inputs from WAM