Archaeologists in the UAE have made a groundbreaking discovery, uncovering what is believed to be the lost city of Tu’am. Situated on Al Sinniyah Island in the Umm Al Quwain area, this ancient regional capital was renowned for its pearl fishing industry and trade in precious gems.

The excavation revealed evidence of a larger settlement, including traces of expansive semi-urbanized tenement buildings measuring approximately 322 square feet, arranged along narrow walkways. Additionally, archaeologists found mass graves nearby, suggesting a historical account of residents succumbing to a plague, as the skeletal remains showed no signs of trauma or violent deaths.

Professor Tim Power of UAE University, reflecting on the significance of the findings reported by Heritage Daily, noted, “Our archaeological work has uncovered the largest settlement ever found on the Gulf coast of the Emirates. It aligns perfectly with the period described in early Islamic geographical sources as the city of Tu’am. This discovery marks a significant historical site that had been previously unknown to scholars.”

The discovery of Tu’am opens new avenues for understanding the ancient Gulf coast’s cultural and economic dynamics, providing valuable insights into early Islamic era settlements and their inhabitants’ lives.