Research conducted at the Hili 2 archaeological site, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Al Ain, has revealed new evidence on social life in the region 3,000 years ago.

The research, carried out by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), revealed more information about the people living in the area during the Iron Age.

Cooking methods, house-building techniques and evidence of types of farming have been found.

Archaeologists working on the site also learned that the people living here used tannours similar to what has been used in the recent past by people in Arab countries. These tannours were found in communal areas that would have been used by many families, showing the importance of community and communal activities during this time.

Commenting on the recent findings, HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: “The research at Hili 2 reveals an unparalleled window into the past. The archaeological results illustrate how our ancestors used available materials, in a sophisticated and optimal fashion, to build houses and buildings that would last for millennia.”