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Settlement Dynamics and Coastal Change in the Arabian Gulf Neolithic: Wādī aḍ‐Ḍubayʿān (Qatar)

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT This paper presents the results of archaeological investigations (2009–2014) at Wādī aḍ‐Ḍubayʿān (QNHER 141), a stratified littoral Neolithic site on the northwestern coast of Qatar. The site documents occupation from the late sixth to the late fourth millennium BCE , combining evidence from geophysics, excavation and radiocarbon dating. Early activity consists of ephemeral structures, hearths and pits located on elevated ground, associated with a modest assemblage of Ubaid‐related pottery and an expedient lithic industry. From the mid‐fifth millennium BCE, occupation shifted toward a developing palaeoshoreline, where alternating phases of marine deposition and human activity are preserved. Continued use into the fourth millennium BCE is marked by a substantial midden dominated by marine resources. These results indicate a flexible settlement system closely tied to Holocene sea‐level fluctuations that contribute to broader discussions around coastal adaptation and interaction networks in the Arabian Neolithic.

Source: Arabian archaeology and epigraphy

DOI: 10.1111/aae.70033

Authors: Richard Thorburn Howard Cuttler, Faisal Al Naimi, Rémy Crassard, Peter Spencer, Howell Magnus Roberts

Institutions: Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, Qatar Museums, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Archéorient, University of Bergen

Language: English

Topic: Maritime and Coastal Archaeology

Subfield: Archeology (arts and humanities)

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: bronze

OpenAlex ID: W7213974189

FWCI:

Cites: 11

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Related to: 10