Tell Abraq

Tell Abraq, located on the border between Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain in the United Arab Emirates, is one of the largest and best-preserved prehistoric settlements in the Lower Gulf region. This site highlights significant occupation during the Umm Al Nar, Wadi Suq, and Iron Age periods, showcasing its importance in ancient trade networks. The site features a monumental circular fortification built c. 2200 BCE and a large tomb used to inter approximately 410 individuals, indicating a developed society with complex social structures. Tell Abraq's archaeological finds, including Harappan weights, jewelry, and ivory artifacts, point to extensive trade links with Mesopotamia, Iran, and the Indus Valley. The site's importance is further underscored by evidence of metalworking and a vast collection of faunal remains, reflecting the dietary practices of its inhabitants. Excavations continue to reveal insights into its historical significance.