RIYADH: New archaeological discoveries in Dadan, AlUla, have revealed evidence that bridges a major historical gap between the Nabataean and early Islamic periods in Wadi Al-Qura, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

A Saudi Arabia-France team from the Royal Commission for AlUla and the French National Center for Scientific Research made the discovery, as a part of the Dadan Archaeological Project.

The study documents, for the first time, detailed archaeological evidence spanning the 3rd to the 7th centuries C.E. in northwestern Arabia — a period once thought to mark a decline in settled habitation after the Nabataean era.

According to the report, excavations conducted between 2021 and 2023 uncovered a large, well-built structure dating back to the late 3rd or early 4th century C.E., which remained in use until the first half of the 7th century.

Researchers say this is the first integrated archaeological evidence confirming continuous settlement in the area between the 5th and 7th centuries C.E.

Findings included a network of rooms and courtyards, a central well and water channels, and signs of agricultural activity, food production, crop storage, and craftsmanship, all pointing to a stable and organized community.

The study employed a multidisciplinary approach, analyzing pottery, stone tools, plant and animal remains, and geological samples to better understand the diet, agriculture, and oasis environment of the period.

These findings show that AlUla was part of a thriving network of settlements across northwestern Arabia in the centuries leading up to the rise of Islam.

Abdulrahman Al-Suhaibani, Royal Commission for AlUla, vice president of culture

Abdulrahman Al-Suhaibani, RCU’s vice president of culture and one of the lead researchers, said the results reveal an important and previously misunderstood chapter in the region’s history.

“These findings show that AlUla was part of a thriving network of settlements across northwestern Arabia in the centuries leading up to the rise of Islam,” Al-Suhaibani said.

“They enhance our understanding of local societies and underscore AlUla’s enduring historical and cultural role.”

The RCU said the discovery supports its mission to advance pioneering archaeological research and strengthen international academic partnerships.

Their findings were recently published in the leading international journal Arabian Archaeology and Epigraphy.

The initiative aligns with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to make AlUla a global center for cultural tourism, scientific research, and the preservation of natural and cultural heritage.