The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) recently elevated the global profile of Dubai’s archaeological heritage by participating in the Islamic Archaeology Conference 2025 in Warsaw, Poland. The delegation presented crucial findings regarding the Suhaila archaeological site in Hatta, underscoring the emirate’s commitment to preserving its historical assets and fueling international scholarly exchange. This outreach initiative, held at the esteemed Institute of Mediterranean and Oriental Cultures of the Polish Academy of Science, aims to position Dubai prominently on the world’s heritage map through rigorous research and cross-cultural dialogue.
Unveiling Life in Late Islamic Hatta
During the international conference, Dubai Culture’s delegation presented a scientific paper titled ‘Dubai Culture and Arts Authority survey works at Hatta – The discovery of Suhaila site (Late Islamic Period).’ Authored by Dubai Culture archaeologists Mitha Al Mutaiwei, Dr. Mansour Boraik, and Hassan Zein, the paper detailed extensive survey, excavation, and documentation efforts at Suhaila, one of Hatta’s most significant historical locations.
The research illuminates a sprawling traditional settlement dating primarily from the 17th to the 19th centuries AD, characteristic of the Late Islamic Period. Situated near the base of the Hajar Mountains, the site is notable for 16 distinct villages and 447 identified archaeological features. These include domestic structures, sophisticated agricultural terraces, mosques, grave sites, water wells, and watchtowers, all constructed using local stone materials adapted skillfully to the challenging, rugged topography.
The material evidence from Suhaila provides critical insights into the resilience and sustainable practices of early mountain life in Dubai. The community utilized an ingenious agropastoral system, combining livestock management with terrace farming. Early inhabitants engineered complex irrigation channels and constructed tiered agricultural terraces along the mountain slopes, ensuring sufficient water for seasonal crops despite the environmental harshness. This demonstrates an outstanding example of traditional land use that sustained the community over several generations.
Trade Routes and Material Culture
Key findings presented at the conference also showcased notable artifacts unearthed during excavations. These included a variety of objects such as jewelry, ancient coins, stone implements like querns and grinding tools, and numerous fragments of both locally produced and imported pottery.
These recovered materials confirm Suhaila’s strategic importance situated along historical trade routes that connected the interior regions of the United Arab Emirates with the Omani coast. The blend of local subsistence farming, craftsmanship, and integration into broader regional trade networks highlights the site’s vital role in the socio-economic structure of the time.
Dubai Culture’s presentation emphasized how the site represents more than just a historical settlement; it is a testament to sustainable human adaptation and integration within wider cultural and economic systems during the Late Islamic Period. By sharing this data with international experts, Dubai Culture reinforces its role as a steward of heritage and a contributor to the global understanding of Islamic archaeology. Further research is expected to build on these findings, offering deeper perspectives on the region’s historical connectivity and traditional mountain culture.