Manarat al Saadiyat
26 April
7pm – 8.30pm
The story of archaeology in the UAE began in the 1950s with the excavation of Bronze Age tombs on Umm an-Nar Island by Danish teams at the personal invitation of Sheikh Shakhbut bin Sultan Al Nahyan, then ruler of Abu Dhabi. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan took a keen interest in the archaeologists’ work and accompanied his brother Sheikh Shakhbut to see the site. Sheikh Zayed understood the importance of unearthing the UAE’s unique and interesting past and encouraged archaeological excavations in Abu Dhabi and across the emirates. His encouragement led to the flourishing of archaeological study in the UAE, revealing its rich ancient heritage.
Speakers
Eisa Yousif, Director of Excavation and Archaeological Sites, Sharjah Archaeology Authority – Peter Magee, Head of Archaeology, Coastal Heritage and Paleontology, Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority
Image caption and copyright:
Sheikh Shakbut, Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Haza visiting the excavations on Umm an-Nar island, 1959. © Moesgaard Museum