Latest news with #AlAyala
Sharjah 24
20-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah's rhythmic heritage dazzles crowds at 30th RIBF
Traditional rhythms and instruments Audiences enjoyed lively renditions of Al Ayala, Al Harbiya, and Al Razfa, performed with precision and passion. The band featured iconic Emirati percussion instruments, including barrel and hand drums, which formed the backbone of these traditional performances. Chants that tell a story Powerful Emirati chants accompanied the music, offering lyrical stories of heroism, unity, and tribal pride. Passed down through generations, these chants highlighted the deep link between rhythm and oral storytelling in Emirati culture. A cultural bridge between nations The vibrant performances captivated crowds and offered a window into living traditions still present in UAE celebrations today. Sharjah's participation in the fair continues to build cultural bridges, celebrating folk arts and oral heritage as vital links in Arab identity and unity.
Khaleej Times
04-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
How Dubai World Cup became a global showcase of culture and luxury
Dubai is often celebrated as a melting pot of cultures, a vibrant city where East meets West in an effortless blend of splendid tradition and eye-catching modernity. It also thrives on contrasts — where desert dunes meet gleaming skyscrapers, and centuries-old traditions co-exist with innovation. Nowhere is this cultural equality more vividly displayed than at the Dubai World Cup, the Middle East's most prestigious annual horse racing event that takes place at the spectacular Meydan Racecourse. The Dubai World Cup is more than just a sporting showdown; it is a grand convergence of heritage and global prestige, where the regal traditions of Arabian horsemanship meet the glamour of high-stakes racing. Stepping into Meydan on race day is like stepping onto a global stage draped in elegance. The grandstand and lawns are abuzz with a kaleidoscope of styles. Men don impeccably tailored suits, some tipping their top hats in a nod to Ascot's tradition, while women arrive in haute couture ensembles, their fascinators fluttering in the desert breeze. Amid them, Emirati men in flowing white 'kanduras' and women in exquisitely embroidered 'abayas' glide through the mixed crowd with a grace that speaks to the UAE's proud heritage. Yet, beyond the fashion, it is the energy of the place that is truly captivating. The roar of the crowd as the thoroughbreds thunder down the Meydan tracks is universal — a sound that bridges languages and nationalities. Between races, the cultural immersion deepens. Emirati men perform the Al Ayala, a traditional Emirati dance that symbolises unity, strength and heritage, and is often performed at national celebrations and cultural events, while young women in traditional attire twirl their long, dark hair in a mesmerising dance that harks back generations. Nearby, Arabic stalls showcase traditional Bedouin fare, hand-woven textiles, delicate calligraphy, and artisanal crafts — each piece telling a compelling story of the region's glorious artistry. For those who arrive expecting only cocktails and caviar, the culinary landscape offers a delightful surprise. While international delicacies are served in Meydan's fine-dining lounges, the heart of the experience lies in the local flavours — freshly brewed Arabic coffee poured from golden 'dallahs', trays of crisp 'luqaimat' drizzled in date syrup, and warm 'khameer' bread infused with saffron and cardamom. Seasoned racegoers from around the world are often seen relishing these Emirati specialities, a testament to how Dubai's cultures are warmly embraced at its most glamorous events. As the sun dipped in the Meydan night sky, I found myself standing beside an elderly British gentleman meticulously adjusting his pocket square, a pair of high-end Carl Zeiss binoculars — renowned among horse racing enthusiasts — hanging over his left shoulder. He had the effortless elegance of someone who had attended major race meetings at Royal Ascot, Longchamp, Flemington or Churchill Downs, for decades. 'I've been to many major race meetings in the world,' he said, eyes scanning the vibrant crowd. 'Cheltenham, Churchill Downs, the Arc, Melbourne Cup, you name it. But this,' he gestured toward the grandstand, where Emirati men in crisp white 'kanduras' stood side by side with European racegoers in designer suits, 'this is something else.' Before I could respond or enquire about his name, the rhythmic beat of drums echoed through Meydan, signalling the start of an 'Al Ayala' performance. The gentleman paused, watching as the Emirati men moved in perfect unison, canes tapping in time with the music. 'It's fascinating, isn't it? The way traditions are honoured while embracing the modern world,' he said and moved on before I could ask him if he was indeed Oliviero Beha, an Italian journalist, writer, essayist, TV and radio host, who passed away in 2017. But beyond the spectacle, the Dubai World Cup has become a meeting point for some of the most influential figures in horse racing. A few feet away, I could see the legendary handler John Gosden, a pillar of British racing, chatting animatedly with a local horse owner. At that moment, it was clear — the Dubai World Cup wasn't just about the races. It was about connections, about the seamless way cultures intertwined under the racecourse's brilliant floodlights. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, a lifelong patron of the sport, can often be seen exchanging thoughts with leading international trainers. Conversations also flow easily between Australian jockey Kerrin McEvoy and legendary Emirati handler Saeed bin Suroor, the pair bound by their shared passion for horse racing despite their vastly different backgrounds. Home to nearly 200 nationalities, Dubai is a city that thrives on cultural harmony, bringing the world together in a way few places can. Nowhere is this spirit more vividly displayed than at the Dubai World Cup, where racing transcends sport — it's a celebration of shared traditions and global unity.
Al Etihad
31-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Al Ayala, the 'heartbeat of Eid': How this folk dance creates a sense of identity and belonging among Emiratis
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 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 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 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 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 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, 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 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 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.
Gulf Today
25-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Sultan Bin Ahmed crowns Sharjah Ruler's Show Jumping Cup winners
On Sunday evening, His Highness Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, presented the Longines Sharjah Prize Cup to rider Luis Felipe and his horse "Sierra de Pedrox Z" at the conclusion of the Sharjah Ruler's International Show Jumping Championship Cup, five-star category, held at the Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club. The first-place winner of the Longines Sharjah Cup received a prize of 55,000 euros. The total prize money for the round amounted to 165,000 euros, while the overall prize pool for the championship exceeded 550,000 euros, awarded to the top performers throughout the event. Emirati rider Abdullah Humaid Al Muhairi secured second place with his horse "Chakolo," while German rider Sophie Henners claimed third with her horse 'Iron Dames Sinclair.' Sheikh Sultan also honoured the riders who qualified for the World Cup final in Basel, Switzerland, from the seventh regional group. These included three riders from the Middle East—Saudi Arabia's Ramzi Al Dahami, Emirati Omar Al Marzouqi, and Kuwaiti Ali Al Kharafi—as well as two riders from North Africa, Moroccans Abdel Kabir Dar and Sami Sharqawi. A total of 169 male and female riders, along with 337 horses from 37 countries, are participating in the championship. They are competing in seven five-star international competitions, all taking place on the sandy outdoor field at the Sharjah Equestrian Centre. The event, held in Sharjah, is the fourth qualifying round for the Arab World Cup Show Jumping series. The first round took place at the Al Ain International Championship in December 2024, followed by the second round at the four-star International Sailing Championship in January, and the third round at the Abu Dhabi International Championship later that month. The championship featured a range of entertainment activities for the audience, including family-friendly shows and performances throughout the event. Highlights included a saxophone performance, light and music displays, a traditional Al Ayala band, a light artist, a police band performance, and a captivating qanun player performance. The championship's organising committee set up a section featuring a variety of restaurants and a bustling market. Daily activities included games, competitions, and giveaways, along with free workshops for children such as colouring, sand drawing, face painting, pony rides, and performances by cartoon characters. The closing competition and winners' ceremony were attended by Sheikh Abdullah bin Majid Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club; Sultan Al Yahyaei, Director-General of the Sharjah Equestrian and Racing Club; Dr. Ghanem Mohammed Al Hajri, Secretary-General of the UAE Equestrian and Racing Federation; representatives of the International Equestrian Federation, numerous championship guests, sponsors, and a large crowd of show jumping enthusiasts.
Emirates 24/7
13-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates 24/7
Sharjah Ruler attends launch of 22nd Sharjah Heritage Days
The 22nd edition of Sharjah Heritage Days was inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, in the Heritage Area of the Heart of Sharjah. The event was attended by H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, and H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah. Organised by the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, the event is themed "Roots" and has attracted participation from local, Arab and international communities. The Ruler of Sharjah was welcomed by folk performances from various bands, including Al Nadba, Al Ayala, Al Harbiya and Al Habban. The event showcases Sharjah's rich cultural legacy, with three major exhibitions. The "Roots" Exhibition highlights the emirate's history, while "The Journey of Perfumes" traces the perfume industry's evolution. The "A Century of Libraries" exhibition focuses on the history of the Al Qasimia Library, which has evolved from the era of Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr bin Khalid Al Qasimi to Sheikh Dr. Sultan's leadership. Sharjah Heritage Days will feature a series of activities across seven cities: Sharjah City, Khorfakkan, Mleiha, Al Dhaid, Kalba, Dibba Al Hisn and Al Hamriyah. New activities include the centennial celebration of Sharjah's first library, a Booksellers Market with over 12 libraries, and the largest Al-Ayala band performance in the UAE, involving more than 300 folk artists. Additional events include live artistic performances, theatre workshops, folk craft demonstrations, and cinema screenings. The cultural café will host discussions on Emirati heritage with esteemed local researchers, alongside book launches and signing events. The Emirati Crafts Centre programme will feature 150 craftsmen from around the world, while the Arab Heritage programme will host a roundtable discussion with UNESCO experts. The International Storytelling School programme will present engaging activities and performances. Sharjah Heritage Days offers a wide range of interactive activities, including workshops, youth councils, and traditional craft training courses. It will also showcase Gulf and international folk arts, with performances from Saudi, Iraqi, Yemeni, Georgian and Russian groups. The event will also highlight participation from GCC countries and several Arab nations, including Morocco, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, Palestine, Tunisia, Algeria and Lebanon. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
