Emiratos Arabes: The first GCC Archaeology Exhibition in Fujairah.

Artefacts, some of which date back to 3000 BC, on display at the first GCC Archaeology Exhibition in Fujairah.

The first GCC Archaeology Exhibition, which featured 1,000 cultural and historical treasures from the region, attracted more than 40,000 visitors from across the UAE and abroad.

The artefacts covered the period from the Modern Stone Age until the late Islamic period, with some of the pieces dating back to 3000 years BC.

Ahmad Khalifa Al Shamsi, Director of the Heritage and Archaeology Department in Fujairah, said the exhibition succeeded in having a popular appeal going beyond the circle of scientists and archaeologists.

"We have had a number of archaeology specialists [who] visit us from various Arab and European countries and they expressed delight at seeing the shared historical and cultural heritage of the Gulf under one roof," he said.

"But we have been specially pleased with the response to the exhibition from the general public; over 40,000 visitors to a first exhibition of its kind is a great achievement."

He said: "Fujairah is an important area in this sense. We have archaeological material going back to 4000 to 5000 BC and up to 230 sites of historical significance - so bringing the exhibition to Fujairah was a fitting tribute to what the emirate has to offer."

Hassan Al Lawati, General Director of Archeology and Museums Department in the Oman Heritage and Culture Ministry, had said that the exhibition has exceeded expectations: "This is a rare joint achievement for Gulf nations, which we hope will be repeated in the future."

Fuente: Gulfnews