The United Arab Emirates, a vibrant mosaic of tradition and modernity, stands as a cultural crossroads where East meets West. Known for its towering skylines and rich heritage, the UAE seamlessly blends its Bedouin roots with the innovations of a globalized world. Its cultural fabric is woven from a shared commitment to preserving heritage while embracing diversity, making it a compelling hub of art, literature, and intercultural exchange in the Arab world and beyond.
Al-Ayyala in United Arab Emirates culture exemplifies the ethos and gallantry of Bedouin life and reinforces the values of dignity and honour. Because it reflects the heritage and values of Emirati culture, the performance has become a symbol of national identity and union, and is an integral part of celebrations.
A profound expression of the UAE’s pinpoint, linking past traditions to the modern Emirati way of life. Its everlasting presence is a testimony to the pride and honour Emiratis feel in their heritage, and it obliges as a bridge between generations, allowing younger Emiratis to connect with their cultural roots. Ayyala is a traditional dance form deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and numerous other Gulf countries.
In 2014, Al Ayyala was emblazoned on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing its significance as a cultural expression and its contribution to preserving Emirati traditions for future generations. It’s a symbol of the UAE’s values of unity, respect, loyalty, and bravery. It often serves as a cultural representation during national holidays, including UAE National Day, as well as at royal weddings and state ceremonies.
Al Ayyala traces its origins back to the Bedouin tribes of the Arabian Desert. Historically, it represented the warrior traditions of these tribes, symbolizing unity, strength, and victory in battle. The dance was performed by men, with the sticks representing swords, as they moved in synchronized steps to demonstrate their readiness for combat or defence of the tribe. Over time, Al Ayyala has evolved into a ceremonial performance that celebrates peace, heritage, and solidarity.
The dance is performed predominantly by men and boys, arranged in two rows facing each other, with each dancer holding a thin bamboo stick called a “cane” (assa). The performers move in a synchronized, rhythmic pattern while chanting poetry or verses that reflect themes of courage, love, and history.
The drumming is central to Al Ayyala. Traditional drums like the takhmir and ras are used, producing deep, rhythmic beats that guide the movements. The dancers sway back and forth in time with the drum beats, creating a sense of unity. Sometimes, the performance is accompanied by the Nafir, a long brass instrument that produces a deep sound: The movements are deliberate and dignified, often slow and steady. Dancers raise their canes high and make specific gestures as if simulating battle scenes or preparing for a hunt. Each action is precise, with a heavy emphasis on rhythm and synchronization, symbolizing the tribe’s collective strength and harmony.
Schools and cultural institutions incorporate Ayala dance into their arts education curriculums from beginning dance classes to advanced levels, students learn the dance’s intricate steps and rhythms. These classes often form part of broader dance programs, enhancing students’ understanding of Emirati heritage.
Dance instructors teach students not only the physical movements but also the cultural significance behind them. Participating in an Ayala dance can be particularly passionate and fun for young learners, especially during school events like the Spring Dance Concert. This approach ensures that the traditional dance remains vibrant and relevant for future generations.
Al-Ayyala involves two rows of 20 or more performers facing each other in a stylised battle scene, with the thin bamboo canes representing arrows or swords. Each row of performers makes alternating movements with their heads, shoulders, arms and canes to suggest victory or defeat.
In between the rows, a band consisting of brass instruments, drums and tambourines plays the music and the men chant lines of verse, usually from Nabati poetry, on the themes of chivalry and valour. There are different types of poems according to the occasion of the performance. Each community and region, whether coastal or inland, has its own particular form of Al-Ayyala. The variations are expressed in the chanted poems, the speed of the rhythm, and in minor changes in movement and sound tones. Also accompanying the performance is a group of men known as yaweela in the Emirati dialect (the name implies movement), who move in a wide circle, stepping in rhythm to the beat and waving canes.
Preetha Vikram
About the Writer
Preetha Vikram is a passionate educator with over 25 years of experience working with children aged 3 to 12 years. An Abacus instructor, subject coordinator, poet, and author, Preetha was born in Kerala and grew up across various regions of North and South India. Despite facing early challenges, including the loss of her parents, she pursued her academic ambitions, earning a Master’s degree in English Language. From her formative years, Preetha displayed a strong work ethic, delving into teaching and writing at a young age. In 2015, she made a significant move to the UAE, working as an English Language Teacher at East Point Indian International School. She has since established herself both personally and professionally in the UAE. Currently, Preetha holds a Transitional Teacher’s license and serves as an Academic Resource Person at the Sri Narayani Teacher Training Center in Hyderabad, India, reflecting her dedication to education and lifelong learning.
