Archaeologists have uncovered the first large-scale Iron Age necropolis ever found in the United Arab Emirates, dating back nearly 3,000 years. The site, located in the Al Ain region, was discovered by experts from the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) during an ongoing excavation.
The site features more than 100 tombs, many of which contain well-preserved burial goods. Researchers say the find offers valuable insight into a little-known period of the UAE’s ancient past.
“This discovery promises to transform our understanding of the ancient Emirates,” said Jaber Saleh Al Merri, director of the Historic Environment Department at DCT Abu Dhabi.
“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.”
Well-preserved tombs reveal cultural practices
The cemetery is believed to be the best-preserved and most thoroughly documented Iron Age burial site in the region. It provides rare evidence of how early communities in the Arabian Peninsula lived, worked and interacted during a key stage of cultural development.
Each tomb was built by digging a vertical shaft approximately two meters deep, followed by a horizontal, oval-shaped chamber carved into the side.
After placing the body and burial goods inside, workers sealed the entrance with stones or mudbricks and filled in the shaft. The absence of surface markers explains why such tombs remained hidden in Al Ain until now.
.@dctabudhabi has unearthed a major Iron Age cemetery, the first discovery of its kind in Al Ain Region. The site, containing more than a hundred tombs and an array of artefacts, casts a new light on a previously unknown chapter of #AbuDhabi’s rich heritage. pic.twitter.com/vEHNxONTkx
— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) April 21, 2025
Though all the tombs appear to have been looted in antiquity, archaeologists recovered several items missed by thieves. A few small pieces of gold jewelry survived, offering a glimpse of the wealth that once filled the graves.
More remarkably, many other burial goods remained intact, including decorated pottery, carved soft-stone items, and fine metalwork. These objects reflect a high level of craftsmanship and suggest a complex culture with rich burial customs.
Burial goods and personal items offer new insights
Among the most notable items were drinking sets that included spouted vessels, bowls, and small cups. Weapons made from copper alloy—such as spearheads and clusters of arrowheads—were also found. Some arrowheads still carried traces of the wooden shafts once attached to them, and one sample may contain remains of an ancient quiver.
Personal items buried with the dead included shell cosmetic containers, bead necklaces, bracelets, rings, and razors. These finds offer a closer look at the daily lives and personal habits of people from the Iron Age.
Although human remains were discovered in fragile condition, a team of forensic archaeologists, including bone specialists, handled them with care. Laboratory analysis will help determine the age, gender, and health of those buried. Researchers also plan to examine ancient DNA to learn more about family ties and possible migration patterns across the region.