Al Ayala, the 'heartbeat of Eid': How this folk dance creates a sense of identity and belonging among Emiratis

Al Etihad

31-03-2025

31 Mar 2025 23:32
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)Al Ayala is more than just a dance in the UAE - it is a living expression of unity and pride for Emiratis. During Eid, this performing art form becomes the heartbeat of festivities.Inscribed on the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage, this folk dance unites people through rhythmic drumming, chanted poetry, and synchronised movements, complementing social and national celebrations.At key locations like the Abu Dhabi Corniche, Al Ayala groups usually come together for grand performances during the celebrations."These performances do not just preserve our heritage-they bring people together, creating a shared sense of identity and belonging," said Mubarak Al Otaiba, a folk arts expert from the Abu Dhabi Arts Society and Head of the Al Ayala Band.Speaking to Aletihad about the deep significance of the tradition, Al Otaiba said, "Whenever we talk about the most prominent traditional performing arts of the UAE, Al Ayala always comes first," Al Otaiba said.He described it as an art form that is distinctly Emirati, "not an imported practice.""It has two main forms: the one performed on land and the one performed in coastal areas. These two styles are among the most important elements in traditional Emirati performing arts. Despite the diversity of performances across the mountains, coasts, and deserts, Al Ayala remains the most celebrated," the expert said.Between different Al Ayala groups, there could be some minor technical variations, but the essence remains the same, he added."Al Ayala is among the oldest (dances), practised across all seven emirates from Abu Dhabi to Fujairah, with slight regional differences in performance styles," Al Otaiba said.
A Symbol of National Identity Often called the "foundational art" in the UAE, Al Ayala is more than just a performance - it is a living expression of heritage."While it shares some elements with other folk traditions, it stands apart in terms of style and execution," Al Otaiba said."More than just a dance, it is a profound symbol of national identity, passed down through generations."In Emirati celebrations, both national and social, folk arts hold "a unique place", Al Otaiba said."They serve as a platform for artists to express joy, camaraderie, and cultural pride," he said."Every celebration in the UAE acts as a stage where heritage can be showcased and passed on to younger generations, ensuring they remain connected to their cultural roots."
Preserving Heritage In this era of advanced technologies and rapid transformations, understanding folk arts should include not only the practitioners - the public has a role to play, too.There is a need for communities to get involved in traditional performing arts, particularly Al Ayala, as a means to preserve these cultural expressions for generations to come.Encouraged to enhance their children's understanding of these traditions, parents have a key role to play in keeping this cherished art form alive."When people attend Al Ayala performances, they witness more than just a dance - they experience the history, poetry, and cultural narratives embedded within it. It is crucial that parents involve their children in these events, introducing them to the traditional instruments, rhythms, and chants that define our heritage," Al Otaiba said."Such exposure helps children recognise and appreciate the elements of folk arts beyond what they learn in school," he added.This Eid, Al Otaiba's Al Ayala group is hosting a special children's event at Qasr Al Hosn from 4 pm to 7 pm.
"We invite families to come, meet the performers, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. Traditional performing arts are a huge part of our heritage, and we hope to see a great turnout to celebrate and support our traditions," he said.