Uncovering Archaeological Treasures at Saruq al-Hadid, UAE: Insights From Ground Penetrating Radar and Magnetic Data

Abstract

Saruq al-Hadid, located at the edge of the Rub Al-Khali desert near Dubai's southern border with Abu Dhabi, is among the region's richest archaeological sites. Renowned for its historical role in metallurgy, trade and human habitation, the site was occupied from the Umm an-Nar period through the post–Iron Age. Despite its significance, much of Saruq al-Hadid remains unexplored, with only limited ground penetrating radar (GPR) surveys and excavation campaigns conducted. Therefore, GPR integrated with magnetic data was used to investigate archaeological features buried beneath the sand dunes in previously unexplored areas. The bedrock, characterized by a gypsum layer with high-amplitude reflections, serves as a key marker for identifying periods of occupation. Interpretation of the geophysical data, supported by radiometric dating and findings from previous campaigns, revealed five distinct occupation layers, corresponding to the Umm an-Nar, Wadi Suq, Iron Age II, Iron Age III and post–Iron Age periods, separated by strong and continuous reflection surfaces, showcasing Saruq al-Hadid as a persistent settlement over millennia. Six potential archaeological areas (A–F) were identified within Saruq al-Hadid, each containing significant structures and hundreds of potential archaeological artefacts. These findings highlight the potential for uncovering further insights into the archaeological and historical significance of Saruq al-Hadid.