Early Islamic Settlement Unearthed at Hulayit in Al Dawadmi

The Saudi Heritage Commission, the government body responsible for preserving the Kingdom's archaeological and cultural heritage, has uncovered new evidence of an early Islamic settlement during the fourth excavation season at the Hulayit archaeological site in Al Dawadmi.

According to the commission, the excavations revealed parts of a permanent settlement dating back more than 1,300 years, including a mosque, marketplaces and workshops. The findings reinforce Hulayit's historical significance as one of the Arabian Peninsula's earliest gold mining centres.

Fieldwork also documented 18 architectural units and uncovered a carved stone weight inscribed with the word "Ratl," a historical unit of measurement. The commission said the artefact indicates the use of standardised weighing systems for commercial transactions during the site's occupation.

Archaeologists also recovered pottery, stone and glass artefacts, alongside jewellery and personal ornaments. According to the commission, these finds provide further insight into daily life and the industries associated with gold mining, trade and craftsmanship, while helping reconstruct Hulayit's role as both a production centre and a settled community within regional trade networks.