Immerse Yourself In The Spectacle Of Saudi Arabia’s Ardah Dance

A video of Brazilian football star Neymar, alongside his Al Hilal teammates and Cristiano Ronaldo, clad in traditional Saudi thobes and stepping to an Arabic tune, has captivated social media.

The video left many wondering about the Arabic folk dance the star footballers had performed. The Saudi Ardah is what it is known as, and it holds a global cultural importance. Originally a martial dance, it was performed before significant battles and victories by tribes of the Arabian Peninsula including the ruling family of Al-Saud.

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The dance is a combination of traditional chanting, swordplay, and rhythmic drums. However, in the present times, this art form has become an integral part of various significant events including national gathering, concerts, national festivals, and royal ceremonies held to welcome dignitaries.

The participants performing the traditional dance will wear the set of adornments including ghutra (head scarf), agal (headband), and ornamental gown called Saya. The main center of attraction is the accessories the dancers wear like daggers, pistol holsters and bullet belts.

All the dancers arranged in rows, singing and performing together is an actual treat to the eyes. The spectacle usually lasts 15 to 25 minutes.

Before the performance begins, the poet will initiate a vocal call called maharajah which is then accompanied by rhythmic beats. Then the rows converge, with the poet leading the chant and the drums setting the rhythm.

Watching the Saudi sword dance is richly enlightening and highly enjoyable experience.

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With the blend of slow dance movements, steady drum beats, narrations, and singing, Al Ardha has evolved to become a symbol of traditional Saudi Arabian culture.

Ardha is performed in most of the cultural events. Experiencing the Jenadriyah Festival is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in Saudi Arabian traditions. As for the most beautiful scene in the festival, it is the Ardha dance itself.