Palaeoenvironmental Reconstruction of the Dubai Emirate (U.A.E.) Coastline from the 3rd Millennium BC. To 1st Millennium AD. Based on Geographic Information System Techniques

The apparent disconnection of coastal archaeological sites from surrounding natural resources poses a significant challenge for interpreting prehistoric human–environment interactions, particularly in dynamic landscapes such as the Emirate of Dubai. Sites including Al-Qusais, Al-Soufouh, and Jumeirah, which today seem distant from productive shorelines or freshwater sources, were likely once closely linked to coastal and estuarine ecosystems. This contrast reflects long-term Holocene environmental transformations, including sea-level fluctuations, sediment deposition, and climatic shifts.

This study applied Geographic Information Systems (GIS), sedimentology and malacology to reconstruct past shorelines between 4000 BC and 1000 AD, integrating geological, faunal, and archaeological data to model prehistoric coastal landscapes. Sea levels according to composite values combining a modest relative sea-level (RSL) highstand with the still-unfilled marine accommodation space, the upper limit of the tidal frame, and vertical crustal movement. Because the mapped marine units are predominantly intertidal, they are referenced to high water rather than to mean sea level. Sedimentary and geomorphological analyses revealed multiple marine transgressions, mangrove–marsh development, and later aridification. Evidence from Al-Qusais site indicated two to three shallow transgressions followed by mangrove ecosystems, possibly overlapping with Wadi Suq occupation (2000–1500 BC). Comparable patterns appear at Al-Soufouh site, while Jumeirah likely bordered a small marine inlet.

GIS estimations suggested these sites were situated very close to ancient coastlines, embedded in resourcerich environments. Archaeological evidence further implies even closer proximity, highlighting adaptive settlement strategies closely tied to evolving coastal environments.

Keywords: Palaeoenvironmental Reconstruction, GIS, Geoarchaeology, Shoreline Evolution, Arabian Gulf Archaeology.