Archaeologists in the United Arab Emirates have uncovered the country’s first Iron Age cemetery in Al Ain. The well-preserved necropolis, believed to contain over 100 graves, offers insight into the social, economic, and cultural life of a society that existed 3,000 years ago.
The discovery was made by a team from the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). “The burial traditions of the Iron Age have always been a mystery to us,” said Jaber Saleh Al Marri, Director of the Historical Environment Department at DCT Abu Dhabi. “Now, we have tangible evidence that will allow us to explore and learn about the lives and customs of the people who lived here 3,000 years ago.”
The tombs were constructed by digging vertical shafts approximately two meters deep, then horizontally to form oval-shaped burial chambers. After placing the deceased and funerary artifacts inside, the entrances were sealed with clay bricks or stones and backfilled.
Despite being looted in antiquity, artifacts remain. Personal items such as gold beads, copper-alloy weapons, pottery, razors, shell cosmetic containers, necklaces, bead bracelets, rings, and scalpels were found within the graves. Some small pieces of gold jewelry that survived ancient looting indicate the wealth of what was once buried.
Drinking vessels including jugs, bowls, and small cups were also among the findings.
Archaeologist Tatiana Valente, part of the excavation team, described one particular find as “a masterpiece” — a bird-adorned copper cup. “We are putting the puzzle together slowly, piece by piece,” Valente said.
The absence of previously discovered Iron Age graves in the Al Ain region was attributed to the lack of surface signs of the graves. Archaeologists working in the area for over 65 years had uncovered villages, forts, temples, aflaj (ancient underground water channels), and palm groves dating back to the Iron Age. However, the sites of cemeteries and burial customs remained unknown until this recent discovery.
About 3,000 years ago, the innovation of the falaj system—underground aqueducts—contributed to the continuity of settlement and agricultural expansion in the region. The falaj system fostered agricultural development, which in turn supported a sophisticated society evidenced by its metallurgy and trade links.
The discovery is part of the Funerary Landscapes of Al Ain Project, which began in 2024 and aims to study cemeteries uncovered during infrastructure works in areas classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 2011. The project seeks to fill gaps in the historical record and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the region’s past.
Numerous weapons made of copper alloys were found within the graves, including spearheads and caches of arrowheads. The collection also includes pottery, carved soft stone, and metal works.
The article was written with the assistance of a news analysis system.
