Satellite Imagery, Ground Penetrating Radar Reveals Buried Structure, Aflaj Systems, Umm an-Nar tombs, and Ancient Buildings
Khalifa University of Science and Technology today announced researchers from the Environmental and Geophysical Sciences (ENGEOS) lab and the Earth Science department have detected the presence of a long, buried remains, which may resemble a wall or an ancient building, at the Saruq Al Hadid archeology site in Dubai, and signs of historic settlements in Al Ain, through advanced ground penetrating radar, demonstrating that their method can be used to spot potential archaeological sites buried under the sand, from space.
The method was developed during this first phase of the project led by Khalifa University’s Dr. Diana Francis, Head, ENGEOS lab, and Assistant Professor, Earth Sciences, applying machine learning algorithms to high-resolution satellite imagery, and advanced image processing techniques to detect and map buried archaeological features at the site. An archaeological excavation is still required to confirm the discoveries at Saruq Al Hadid, while collaboration with Dubai Culture has already been initiated to proceed with manual investigations at the site by archaeological missions.
The researchers have already applied their innovative method to investigate sites of archeological importance in Al Ain in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, with this ongoing work leading to the discovery of several ancient water channels (Aflaj) and related irrigation systems, buried tombs of the Bronze Age Umm an-Nar culture, and other ancient buildings. The researchers are planning to apply this method to other areas in the UAE, including Umm Al Quwain.
His Excellency Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President, Khalifa University, said: “The validation of results at the archaeological sites in Abu Dhabi and Dubai strongly reflects Khalifa University’s emphasis on locally and globally-relevant research projects that positively impact the community. By developing an effective method to support exploration of areas for information on ancient civilization, our researchers have once again demonstrated their commitment to obtain suitable solutions through scientific innovation. We believe our achievement will immensely benefit local and global stakeholders, especially those involved in archaeology.”
Muna Faisal Al Gurg, CEO, Culture and Heritage Sector, Dubai Culture, highlighted the site’s rich archaeological value and its role in emphasizing the historical significance of Dubai and the region, saying: “Saruq Al Hadid is one of the most important and largest archaeological sites in the southeastern part of the Arabian Peninsula dating back to the Iron Age, and the discovery of significant findings during previous excavations has enhanced the site’s status and its scientific importance.” She commended the efforts of the team at Khalifa University of Science and Technology during the period of study which has resulted in the confirmation of the presence of buried structures at Saruq Al Hadid, representing a qualitative leap in the excavation processes witnessed by the site. “The results of the study will pave the way for more archaeological discoveries within the site, which will enrich scientific research related to the archaeology sector in Dubai and the UAE, and increase knowledge about the economic activity and lifestyles experienced by the area’s inhabiting civilizations during the Iron Age.”
“The ENGEOS Lab’s pioneering research at Saruq Al Hadid and Al Ain archaeological sites sets a benchmark for the development of remote sensing archaeology capabilities and automates and refines the process, so we can improve accuracy and minimize potential errors.”
— Dr. Diana Francis, Head of ENGEOS lab, Assistant Professor, Earth Sciences, KU
Dr. Diana Francis said: “Through the fusion of technology, research, and collaboration, Khalifa University continues to lead the way in fostering innovation and understanding in the field of environmental and geophysical sciences. The ENGEOS Lab’s work at Khalifa University exemplifies the institution’s commitment to pushing boundaries and contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge. This pioneering research not only sets a benchmark for the development of remote sensing archaeology capabilities at a national and regional level but by automating and refining the process, we can improve accuracy and minimize potential errors before expanding the methodology to larger areas.”
One of the aims of the method, which used advanced satellite images, machine learning and radar sensors, was to be able to pinpoint specific regions within a vast area from which archaeologists may start their search, saving extensive time and resources for archaeologists by enabling targeted investigations based on satellite and machine learning predictions. Moreover, this groundbreaking approach conducted by the ENGEOS Lab holds other far-reaching implications, particularly in addressing the challenges of remote sensing in desert environments like the UAE, where classic satellite imagery can be compromised by the fact that archaeological sites get buried under the sand with time.
Looking ahead, the ENGEOS Lab has outlined two main objectives as they aim to apply and refine their method in similar desert environments to enhance the algorithm’s efficiency and provide additional evidence of its effectiveness. The team also intends to apply their approach to known sites, comparing geophysical data with the findings of professional archaeologists to further enhance the learning capabilities of the intelligent systems model.
