International Association for the Study of Arabia Monographs 22
This volume examines the Neolithic period in Eastern Arabia, focusing on the coastal site of UAQ2 in Umm al-Quwain, United Arab Emirates. Based on years of excavations and surveys conducted by the French Archaeological Mission in the UAE, it explores how coastal communities lived and adapted between the 8th and 6th millennia before present. The book highlights the unique features of UAQ2, including its well-preserved stratigraphy, which provides insights into settlement patterns, subsistence strategies, and burial practices. These findings offer a detailed understanding of how these communities sustained themselves through fishing, hunting, and herding. The site contains one of the oldest known graveyards in the Arabian Gulf, revealing evidence of inter-group violence and symbolic practices linked to ancient pearling traditions. In addition to examining local practices, this monograph places UAQ2 within broader regional networks. It explores connections with Mesopotamia, demonstrated by Ubaid pottery, and links with the Sultanate of Oman, reflected in shared material culture and technologies. These interactions underline the UAE’s significant place in regional exchange during the Neolithic. The study also considers the impact of environmental changes on human mobility and settlement, including the effects of aridification and shifting coastal landscapes. By integrating archaeological and environmental analyses, this book enhances our understanding of the Neolithic period in Eastern Arabia and its place within the wider prehistoric world.
H 290 x W 205 mm
246 pages
185 figures, 44 tables
Published Nov 2025
ISBN
Hardback: 9781805831259
Digital: 9781805831266
Contents
List of Figures
List of Tables
Acknowledgements
List of contributors
Preface
Introduction – S. Méry, K. Lidour
Contextualising Research and Excavation Narrative at UAQ2 – S. Méry, K. Lidour, D. Gasparini
The UAQ2 Graveyard – Biological anthropology and funerary practices – S. Méry, K. Lidour, K. McSweeney
Chronology, Geoarchaeology and Palaeoenvironments – A. Parker, G. Preston, A. Goudie, F. Borgi, M. Degli Esposti, J.-F. Berger, S. Méry, K. Lidour, S. Lindauer, F. Preusser
Material culture – Technology, typology, provenance and exchange in the Arabian Neolithic – K. Lidour, S. Méry, C. Gallou, O. Brunet
Animal economy and subsistence strategies at UAQ2 – K. Lidour, S. Méry, M.J. Beech, L. Yeomans, M. Mashkour, K. Debue, S. Bréhard, C. Dupont, J. Martin
Conclusion – S. Méry, K. Lidour
Appendix 1
Appendix 2
Appendix 3
Appendix 4
Bibliography
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