Bada bint Saud

Bida bint Saud

From a caravan rest stop to a world heritage site

Bida Bint Saud is an important archaeological area located in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, about 25 kilometers north of the city of Al Ain. In the past, the area was a rest stop for caravans, but it turned into an important archaeological site after the discovery of ancient burials and water sources dating back thousands of years, making it a window into the region’s ancient history.

The most important archaeological monuments

Qarn Bint Saud rocky hill

A rocky elevation about 40 meters tall, with a stunning view of the surrounding landscape. Numerous tombs and tombs have been found along its sides, confirming its historical importance as a mass burial site.

Burials

There are more than 40 stone tombs dating back to the Bronze Age on the site. Most of these tombs are circular in shape and contain the remains of the dead, and some are divided into multiple rooms

Irrigation systems (Aflaj)

Two ancient aflaj systems were discovered at the site, indicating that the area was inhabited and cultivated since ancient times. These systems are evidence of the authenticity of this irrigation system in the region three thousand years ago.

Al Falaj Building

A large mud-brick building located near the Falaj Canal, believed to have been used to manage water distribution. It includes a spacious hall and rooms for storing supplies.

The importance of location

The importance of Bida Bint Saud lies in its being part of the cultural sites in Al Ain that were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2011. This listing reflects the exceptional value of the site, as it documents the history of the region from the Bronze Age to the Iron Age and highlights ancient life systems.