The Sharjah Museums Authority has launched a captivating exhibition that delves into the prehistoric roots of human life in Qatar. Titled Shaped by Stones: The Tools that Made Prehistoric Qatar, the exhibition opened at the Sharjah Archaeology Museum on October 20, 2025, and will run until April 30, 2026. It offers a rare opportunity to explore the tools and artifacts that shaped the early societies of the Arabian Peninsula, giving visitors a unique glimpse into the ingenuity of prehistoric communities.
The exhibition, inaugurated by Sheikh Majid bin Sultan bin Saqer Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Districts Affairs Department, features over 110 archaeological pieces. These include intricately crafted arrowheads, flint scrapers, and a fascinating discovery of a camel buried beside its owner just before the advent of Islam. Each artifact provides a window into the lives of early humans in the region, reflecting their creativity, adaptability, and resilience.
Aisha Rashid Deemas, Director General of the Sharjah Museums Authority, described the exhibition as an invaluable insight into the beginnings of civilisation. “These ancient tools are silent witnesses to human creativity, adaptability, and the beginnings of civilisation,” she said. The exhibition also highlights the shared heritage that unites Gulf societies, emphasising the importance of preserving and conveying this rich history to inspire future generations.
The Evolution of Human Life in Qatar
Shaped by Stones traces the development of human life in Qatar from the Paleolithic and Neolithic ages through to the pre-Islamic era. The exhibition showcases the results of extensive research, particularly the fieldwork of Danish archaeologist Holger Kapel in the mid-20th century. Kapel’s discoveries were pivotal in placing Qatar on the archaeological map, offering valuable insights into Neolithic life through his team’s excavations and surface finds.
The exhibition not only displays ancient tools but also encourages reflection on the enduring connections between Gulf societies. These societies share a deep history of adaptation, creativity, and innovation, themes that continue to define the region today.
A Platform for Dialogue and Learning
In addition to the artifacts, Shaped by Stones offers a series of public programs designed to engage visitors further with the region’s ancient past. One of the highlights is a seminar on the history of archaeological excavations in Qatar, featuring prominent researchers and archaeologists. Another key event is a hands-on workshop on November 16, 2025, where participants will have the chance to try their hand at ancient flint tool making.
These educational initiatives reaffirm the Sharjah Museums Authority’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and providing a dynamic platform for public engagement with history. Through exhibitions like Shaped by Stones, Sharjah continues to solidify its position as a leading hub for culture, archaeology, and education in the Gulf region.
Looking to the Future
As the exhibition unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the enduring relevance of ancient history in the modern world. By exploring these early chapters of human life, Shaped by Stones invites visitors to reflect on the ways in which past societies continue to influence and shape the present. The Sharjah Museums Authority’s efforts ensure that the region’s heritage is not only preserved but also celebrated as a living memory, one that connects past, present, and future generations.
For more about the rich cultural heritage of the Gulf region, check out Qatar marks International Day of Intangible Cultural Heritage. To learn more about Sharjah’s ongoing cultural initiatives, explore FBIS 2025 illuminates Dubai with a global celebration of innovation and leadership.
