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Holocene relative sea-level variations and archeological implications, Abu Dhabi western region, United Arab Emirates

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Abstract

New results from fieldwork in the western region of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi showed meaningful differences in relative sea-level variations during Holocene and recorded unknown late marine highstands. These dynamics may have induced important environmental changes and affected human settlement. Surveys have been carried out in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi in order to construct local sea-level variations. These results rely on identifying, characterizing, and dating sea-level indicators and particularly beachrocks. Two main areas were studied: Ghagha island and Ras Khumays peninsula. Data obtained from our surveys highlight significant differences and suggest local processes that need to be understood. From an archeological perspective, this work helps to better understand human settlement dynamic through the Holocene.

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Acknowledgments

The authors acknowledge the Critical Infrastructure and Coastal Protection Authority of Abu Dhabi (CICPA), which allowed them to work in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, especially on Ghagha Island, and supported the project. Many thanks to Officer Mr. Abdel Salam Saif Mohammed who supported on logistical issues during the research investigation on Ghagha Island. Eventually, all our investigations could not have been possible without the support from Sorbonne Abu Dhabi University. Special thanks go to Dr. Fatima Al Shamsi, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Paris-Sorbonne Abu Dhabi University, for her involvement in the work and all the assistance she provided.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Sorbonne Université (ENeC, UMR 8185), 191 rue Saint Jacques, 75005, Paris, France

    Arhan Damien & Fouache Éric

  2. Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, P.O. Box 38044, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

    Pavlopoulos Kosmas

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  1. Arhan Damien
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Correspondence to Arhan Damien or Pavlopoulos Kosmas.

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Damien, A., Kosmas, P. & Éric, F. Holocene relative sea-level variations and archeological implications, Abu Dhabi western region, United Arab Emirates. Arab J Geosci 13, 254 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12517-020-5155-9

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