Ancient Neolithic Community Uncovered On Abu Dhabi’s Ghagha Island

Centuries later, new settlers returned with a different approach to island living. Instead of stone houses, they built palm frond and stone huts, reflecting traditional Gulf architecture. These inhabitants maintained an active lifestyle, fishing and trading shells sourced from distant seas, evidence of a wide-reaching network even in prehistoric times.

The finds also show Ghagha Island’s long-standing role as a cultural hub, with trade routes stretching hundreds of kilometres. Artifacts suggest the island was not only a home but also a connection point for exchanging goods and ideas, proving the resilience and adaptability of early communities.

Though the site has been re-covered to preserve it, Ghagha Island now stands among Abu Dhabi’s rich archaeological treasures, alongside ancient irrigation systems, medieval forts and Stone Age tools. It is a reminder of how life, culture and environmental shifts have shaped the region for millennia.

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