Why go
The site offers a rare view of a much older layer of Dubai's history. Excavations in 1994 and 1995 identified a circular tomb built from stone blocks, as well as surface concentrations of ash, shells, pottery and bone linked to ancient occupation in Al Sufouh.
What to look for
- An Umm Al-Nar circular tomb dated between 2500 and 2000 BC.
- A 6.5-metre tomb with two opposing entrances and divided internal chambers.
- Surface traces including burnt ash, shells, pottery and bones.
The full story
At Al Sufouh, scattered surface material records ancient occupation by a population identified in the source as Magan. The visible evidence includes concentrations of burnt ash, shells, pottery and bone. Excavation in 1994 and 1995 revealed an Umm Al-Nar-type circular tomb dating between 2500 and 2000 BC. The tomb is 6.5 metres across and was built from unworked stone blocks faced by an outer ring of carefully worked ashlar. Two opposing doorways gave access because an internal dividing wall separated the structure into halves, each with three chambers. Excavators found individual burials in flexed positions with ceramic vessels, bronze weapons and many beads. Comparable structures are known from Hili Archaeological Park in Al Ain and Umm Al-Nar Island, placing the site within a wider Bronze Age context.
Useful to know
- Do not assume public entry or on-site interpretation; check Dubai Culture before making a special trip.
- Visit for archaeological context rather than a conventional museum-style experience.