Excavations conducted by the International Umm al-Biyara Project (IUBP) between 2010 and 2014 revealed that the Nabataeans constructed a series of structures around the first century BC. These structures were built on the eastern side, right on the edge of the rock, occupying the most prominent spots of the hill. They offered a superb view over the entire city of Petra and were visible from the city center and beyond. Excavations also showed that the buildings on the eastern side of Umm al-Biyara were reused during the Roman and Late Roman periods, up until their final destruction by the earthquake of 363 CE.

The most prominent structure is a likely royal palace, featuring limestone floors and decorative marble walls, serving the Nabataean elite, likely the kings. It includes several luxurious rooms, one of which features a hypocaust floor-heating system that extends into the walls. Water was supplied by a small aqueduct feeding a basin on the southern side. These amenities, accompanied by the presence of bathtubs and latrine structures, reflect the high status of the occupants. From this vantage point, a Nabataean king had a panoramic view of the capital from a significant ""high place."" The rest of the plateau, except for some possible watchtowers on the western side, is largely unoccupied.