Jebel Hafit Tombs

Situated in the foothills of the imposing Jebel Hafit mountain of Al Ain, Abu Dhabi’s lush garden city about one and a half hours away from the capital, you will find more than 500 ancient tombs known as the Jebel Hafit Tombs. These 5,000-year-old structures mark the beginning of the Bronze Age in the UAE. Thanks to excavations by Danish archaeologists in 1959, evidence of ceramic vessels and copper artefacts were found there, indicating the importance of maritime trade across the Arabian Gulf even then.

Location and History

  • Location: The tombs are located on the foothills of Jebel Hafeet mountain in Al Ain city, within the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

  • Dating: The tombs date back to the end of the 4th millennium BC, approximately 5,000 years ago, marking the beginning of the Bronze Age in the region.

Architectural Features

  • Number: Over 500 tombs have been discovered in the area.

  • Shape: The tombs were constructed from local stones in a circular or oval shape.

  • Design: They are characterized by their “beehive” or “dome-like” structure, where the walls narrow towards the top to form a dome.

  • Burial Chamber: Each tomb contains a single burial chamber and a single entrance, often facing south.

  • Burials: These tombs were designated for the burial of two to five individuals at most, unlike the later “Umm Al Nar” tombs, which could accommodate a larger number of remains.

Archaeological Discoveries

Excavations conducted by archaeological missions, particularly the Danish expedition in 1959, uncovered numerous artifacts that highlight the site’s significance and its ancient trade connections:

  • Pottery: Small pottery vessels, imported from Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq), were found. These are known as “Jemdet Nasr” pottery, confirming the existence of ancient trade relations.

  • Copper Tools: Daggers and spearheads dating back to the 2nd millennium BC were discovered.

  • Jewelry: A collection of beads and other ornamental items was found.

  • Reuse: Some artifacts, such as vessels made from soft soapstone, indicate that the tombs were reused on multiple occasions, especially during the Iron Age (1000-600 BC).

Significance and Heritage

  • UNESCO List: The Jebel Hafeet tombs were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the cultural sites of Al Ain, highlighting their immense historical and human value.

  • Tourist Destination: The tombs are an ideal destination for visitors to explore the region’s ancient history, offering a unique experience amidst the natural landscape of Jebel Hafeet.

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