Sharjah Launches Sharjah Journal of Archaeological Studies: Boosting UAE Research Publications

The Launch of Sharjah Journal of Archaeological Studies

The Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA) marked a significant milestone in the UAE's research landscape with the official launch of the Sharjah Journal of Archaeological Studies on February 16, 2026. Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, the event underscored Sharjah's commitment to preserving and advancing knowledge of its rich archaeological heritage. 71 70 The ceremony featured a panel discussion highlighting the journal's role in fostering scientific discourse, attended by academics from institutions such as the University of Sharjah, University of Khorfakkan, and University of Al Dhaid, along with regional experts and officials from ICESCO and ICCROM.

Issa Yousef Al Hazami, Director-General of SAA, emphasized that this initiative extends Sharjah's longstanding investment in knowledge production and cultural preservation, acting as a bridge between past civilizations and future generations. Dr. Sabah Aboud Jassim, Advisor to the SAA, described it as a valuable addition to the global academic library, enriching scholarly output through rigorous peer-reviewed content. 70

Key Features and Scope of the Journal

The Sharjah Journal of Archaeological Studies is a double-blind peer-reviewed publication issued biannually in May and December, available in both print and electronic formats. Embracing open access principles, it provides immediate free access to all articles, promoting widespread dissemination of knowledge. Submissions are welcomed in Arabic and English, covering original interdisciplinary research on archaeology, civilizations, and tangible cultural heritage across the Arabian Peninsula and its coasts—from prehistoric eras to historical, Islamic, and modern periods. 71

Its scope extends to regional comparisons with areas like the Red Sea, Arabian Gulf, and Indian Ocean, encompassing topics such as site conservation, restoration techniques, cultural site management, digital archaeology, and anthropological studies. This broad yet focused mandate positions the journal as a vital platform for researchers seeking to contextualize local findings within larger historical narratives.

• Biannual publication schedule for timely dissemination
• Open access to maximize global reach
• Bilingual support to bridge linguistic divides
• Emphasis on ethical standards and official approvals for submissions

Peer Review Process and Submission Guidelines

Maintaining the highest scholarly standards, the journal employs a rigorous double-blind peer review process conducted by a panel of national and international professors and experts. This ensures objectivity and quality, with all manuscripts undergoing thorough evaluation before acceptance. Authors are required to secure necessary official permissions prior to submission, aligning with the journal's commitment to publication ethics. 71

To submit, researchers prepare manuscripts adhering to the journal's guidelines, available on the official SAA website. The process involves initial screening, anonymous review, revisions, and final approval, typically spanning several months. This structured approach not only upholds academic integrity but also encourages innovative contributions from emerging and established scholars alike.

Sharjah Archaeology Authority: History and Achievements

Established in 1986 as the Department of Archaeology and Heritage under Sharjah's Department of Culture and Information, the SAA has evolved into a leading institution overseeing all archaeological sites in the emirate. Its mission centers on sustainable preservation of Sharjah's cultural heritage while facilitating exploration by local and foreign teams. 72 Key achievements include groundbreaking discoveries like 80,000-year-old tools at Jebel Faya, pre-Islamic silver coins at Mleiha, and intricate artifacts from Jebel al-Buhais, spanning Iron Age and Umm an-Nar periods.

The Authority manages prominent sites such as Mleiha, Muweilah, and Khatm al Melaha, recently adding four new locations—Wadi Al Helo, Faya Paleolandscape, Al Nahwa, and Khorfakkan—to ISESCO's Islamic World Heritage List. International exhibitions like "From Sharjah to Rome via the Spice Route" further amplify its global footprint.Learn more about SAA sites

Building on a Legacy of Publications

Prior to the new journal, SAA has produced the Annual Sharjah Archaeology series, with Issue 23 released in 2026, alongside specialized books like Mleiha: An Arabian Kingdom on the Silk Road and Studies in Rock Carvings in the Arabian Peninsula. These works document excavations, analyses, and historical insights, setting the stage for the journal's more frequent, peer-reviewed format. 73

This progression reflects SAA's strategic evolution from annual reports to a dynamic biannual platform, enhancing accessibility and scholarly engagement.

Significance for UAE's Higher Education and Research Landscape

In the UAE, where higher education institutions like the University of Sharjah lead national research rankings, the journal fills a critical gap in specialized archaeology publications. It supports the nation's vision for knowledge-based development, aligning with federal initiatives to boost research output in humanities and social sciences. By providing a dedicated outlet, it encourages university faculty and students to contribute, elevating UAE's profile in global academic circles.

For researchers, this means greater opportunities to publish high-impact work, potentially increasing citations and funding prospects. The open access model democratizes knowledge, benefiting cash-strapped institutions worldwide while positioning UAE universities as collaborators in regional heritage studies.Explore UAE higher ed reforms

Collaborations with UAE Universities

SAA's ties with academia are robust, including Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with the University of Sharjah for joint education and research, and University of Khorfakkan. Symposia like "Archaeology of the Arabian Gulf" co-hosted with American University of Sharjah foster interdisciplinary dialogue. Attendees at the launch from these universities highlight ongoing partnerships, where faculty contribute to excavations and publications. 61 43

• Joint symposia and training programs
• Student involvement in field research at sites like Faya
• Co-authored publications in international journals

These collaborations enrich curricula in archaeology, history, and cultural studies, preparing the next generation of scholars.

Ongoing Research Grants and Projects

SAA supports innovation through programs like the Long-Term Research Grant at Faya (2026-2028), alongside short-term grants, inviting global applications until March 31, 2026. These fund multidisciplinary studies on early human migration and environmental adaptations, complementing the journal's publication role.Apply for Faya grants

Technological advancements, such as the Archaeological Geographic Information System launched at GITEX Global 2024 using drones and lasers, exemplify SAA's modern approach, with findings destined for journal pages.

Cultural and Regional Context in UAE Archaeology

Sharjah's emirate boasts over 1,000 registered heritage sites, reflecting layers from Paleolithic settlements to Islamic eras. Amid rapid urbanization, SAA's efforts ensure preservation, with the journal documenting threats like climate change and development. In the broader UAE, archaeology informs national identity, linking modern society to ancient trade routes like the Silk Road and Spice Route.

This context is crucial for higher education, where programs at UAE universities integrate field data into teaching, fostering cultural awareness.

Career Opportunities and Academic Impact

The journal opens doors for archaeologists, historians, and conservators in UAE higher education. Publishing here enhances CVs for faculty positions, postdoctoral roles, and grants. Aspiring professionals can explore higher ed jobs in research or leverage career advice for academia. Platforms like Rate My Professor highlight top UAE archaeology educators, aiding student choices.

As UAE universities expand research, such initiatives attract international talent, boosting enrollment in related programs.

Photo by Ahmed Zaki on Unsplash

Future Outlook and Global Positioning

Looking ahead, SAA plans to index the journal in international databases, amplifying its citations and visibility. This aligns with UAE's UAE Centennial 2071 vision for cultural leadership. By facilitating knowledge exchange, it promises deeper insights into Arabian civilizations, inspiring sustainable heritage management worldwide.

Researchers are encouraged to submit pioneering work, contributing to Sharjah's emergence as a regional research hub. For job seekers, visit university jobs or UAE academic opportunities; explore faculty positions and research assistant roles.