- Al Ahalla, a Living Performing Art in the United Arab Emirates
-
Al Ahalla, a Living Performing Art in the United Arab Emirates
Al Ahalla is a living performing art in the United Arab Emirates that combines sung poetry, oral tradition, and distinctive group movements. Historically linked to pearl diving journeys, it is now performed during weddings, holidays, public celebrations, majlis gatherings, and cultural events.
Unlike many other traditional performances, Al Ahalla does not use drums, tambourines, or other musical instruments. Instead, performers create rhythm through alternating chants and bamboo sticks known locally as khayzaran.
The performance is usually led by a group leader and involves men standing or sitting in rows or circles, reciting poetic verses in harmony and responding to one another. Al Ahalla is transmitted through families, schools, folklore societies, and community practice.
As poets continue to create new verses for modern occasions, the art remains active and adaptable, strengthening social bonds, cultural identity, and continuity between generations.
Al Ahalla, a Living Performing Art in the United Arab Emirates was inscribed in 2025 on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in UAE.
Al Ahalla, a Living Performing Art in the United Arab Emirates
Date of Inscription
2025
- See also
-
Al Aflaj, Traditional Irrigation Network System in the UAE, Oral Traditions, Knowledge and Skills of Construction, Maintenance and Equitable Water Distribution Al Azi, Art of Performing Praise, Pride and Fortitude Poetry Al Sadu, Traditional Weaving Skills in the United Arab Emirates Al Talli, Traditional Embroidery Skills in the United Arab Emirates Al-Ayyala, a Traditional Performing Art of the Sultanate of Oman and the United Arab Emirates Al-Razfa, a Traditional Performing Art Al-Taghrooda, Traditional Bedouin Chanted Poetry in the United Arab Emirates and the Sultanate of Oman Alheda’a, Oral Traditions of Calling Camel Flocks Arabic Calligraphy: Knowledge, Skills and Practices Arabic Coffee, a Symbol of Generosity Arabic Kohl Bisht (men’s Abaa): Skills and Practices Camel Racing, a Social Practice and a Festive Heritage Associated with Camels Date Palm, Knowledge, Skills, Traditions and Practices Falconry, a Living Human Heritage Harees dish: Know-How, Skills and Practices Henna: Rituals, Aesthetic and Social Practices Majlis, a Cultural and Social Space Safeguarding Programme for Al Sadu, Traditional Weaving Skills in the United Arab Emirates The Zaffa in the Traditional Wedding
- Related Links