Local oral tradition often cites supernatural causes for the abandonment, but desertification and proximity to harsh environmental conditions are the generally accepted reasons for departure.
The village was part of a government housing project initiated during the reign of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum to settle nomadic tribes.
The sand drifts are constantly shifting, meaning the amount of sand inside specific rooms changes based on recent wind patterns.
The mosque remains the best-preserved structure in the village, standing at the end of the residential row.
Many of the houses contain remnants of household debris, although these are gradually disappearing due to visitor activity.
The village is located on the edge of the Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter) desert basin.
Al Madam, commonly known as the Buried Village, is a deserted residential settlement in the Sharjah desert featuring two rows of houses and a mosque reclaimed by encroaching sand dunes. Built in the 1970s or 1980s for the Al Kutbi tribe, the village was abandoned by residents in the mid-1990s. The site consists of approximately a dozen concrete structures, many of which are now half-filled with fine desert sand entering through windows and doorways. The houses feature traditional Emirati architectural elements, including decorative plasterwork and doorways, which remain visible despite the desert environment. No official historical markers or permanent museum displays exist at the site, though it is managed as a point of cultural interest. The village remains open to the elements, resulting in ongoing structural degradation due to wind and sand accumulation. Visitors can freely wander through the interiors of the houses to observe the sand ingress. There is no infrastructure or amenities available on-site.
The doorway of the mosque looking out toward the sand-filled houses during golden hour.
A 4x4 vehicle is strongly recommended as the final access point involves driving on soft desert sand.
Bring sufficient water and supplies, as there are no shops or facilities within several kilometers.
Wear closed-toe shoes with sturdy soles to protect against debris and deep sand.
Do not attempt to drive a sedan or non-4x4 vehicle onto the sand tracks, as you will likely get stuck.
Respect the site by not removing artifacts or graffitiing the interior walls.
