New Archaeological Discoveries in Fujairah Redefine History of Human Settlement in the Emirates

Groundbreaking archaeological discoveries in Fujairah have redefined the history of human settlement in the Emirates, revealing evidence of early prehistoric habitation in the region. The Government of Fujairah, in collaboration with an international team of researchers from the Department of Tourism and Antiquities, Fujairah; the University of Jena, Germany; and Oxford Brookes University, United Kingdom, has uncovered significant findings at the Jabal Kaf Addor rock shelter site in the al-Habhab region.

The newly uncovered evidence suggests that mobile groups repeatedly occupied Jabal Kaf Addor between approximately 13,000 and 7,500 years ago. This discovery challenges previous beliefs that Southeast Arabia was uninhabited from about 38,000 years ago until more moist conditions emerged around 7,000 years ago.

Saeed Al Samahi, Director of the Fujairah Tourism & Antiquities Authority, emphasized the significance of this discovery. "Thanks to the directives of the Fujairah government, we are dedicated to developing the antiquities and heritage sector through scientific archaeological surveys and international collaboration," said Al Samahi.

Ali Qasim, Director of Fujairah Natural Resources Corporation, praised the discovery. "We are proud of this significant archaeological finding that rewrites the history of human settlement in Fujairah. Our cooperation with international experts has yielded unprecedented results, highlighting the richness of the emirate's geological and archaeological heritage."

Dr. Knut Bretzke, the supervising archaeologist from the University of Jena, Germany, remarked, "The recent discoveries at Jabal Kaf Addor mark a significant milestone in our understanding of human history in Fujairah. Our findings push the timeline of human occupation in the region back to about 13,000 years ago, challenging long-held beliefs about habitation patterns in Southeast Arabia."

Professor Adrian Parker, palaeoenvironmental specialist from Oxford Brookes University, added, "These findings are remarkable given the prevailing dry conditions in the region during that period. Our research highlights the resilience and adaptability of early human groups to varying climatic conditions."

The discoveries at Jabal Kaf Addor reveal three layers containing stone tools, animal bones, and fireplaces. Radiocarbon dating of charcoal from these fireplaces indicates multiple periods of occupation between about 13,000 and 7,500 years ago, making it the oldest archaeological site in Fujairah.

The Fujairah Natural Resources Corporation, in collaboration with international experts, has also identified more than 30 sites with significant geological characteristics, further enhancing the emirate's archaeological record. The Office of the Crown Prince of Fujairah has accepted a proposal for further excavations at Jabal Kaf Addor and additional surveys in the vicinity.

These discoveries not only enhance our understanding of the region's history but also position Fujairah as a major site for archaeological and geological research, opening new horizons for scientific cooperation and cultural tourism.