Latest news with #AlRazfa
The National
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
What is Al Razfa? The traditional Emirati dance that welcomed Donald Trump
Live updates: Follow the latest on Trump's Gulf trip US President Donald Trump arrived in Abu Dhabi on Thursday, on day three of his Gulf visit, and was received by President Sheikh Mohamed as he stepped off Air Force One. He was then escorted through a ceremonial walkway lined with flags and flanked by Emirati guards and dancers. The dance was a traditional Emirati dance called Al Razfa – but what is it, and what does it mean? The National explains below. Honouring years of heritage Al Razfa is a ceremony most prevalent during important occasions or joyful gatherings. The practice involves two lines of dancers who face each other, using sticks to symbolise the reins of a horse while head movements are meant to imitate a rider on the horse. It was added to Unesco's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2015. According to the Arabic Dictionary, Al Razfa means two things, making noise and moving forward. These are represented through the art forms of poetry and dance. In a previous interview with The National, Emirati poet Ali Al Kaabi said its origins stem from nomadic Bedouin tribes. It would be performed by a poet and his entourage to let all tribal members know it is time to move to a different spot in the desert. While the songs and poetry at first resonated with calls to war, Mr Al Kaabi explains it has evolved to include all occasions such as weddings, homecomings or rain. Initially, the tradition was only composed of a poet in the middle who would recite poetry and the two facing lines accompanying him would melodically repeat it after. However, as time passed, different musical instruments were added like drums and oud that 'enriched the tradition further', he explained.
Sharjah 24
17-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
APC uncovers essence of tradition at Sharjah Heritage Days
During their visit, the children explored different areas of Sharjah Heritage Days, where they discovered traditional jobs and crafts that Emirati ancestors used to practice, like building wooden boats, weaving, and making pottery. They also enjoyed folk performances, including lively dances like "Al Razfa" and "Al Yola," which created a joyful atmosphere and allowed the children to interact with the performers. The kids had the chance to play traditional games that their grandparents enjoyed, such as ' Karabi ' and ' Azeem Al-Sara. ' This hands-on experience let them truly immerse themselves in the heritage of their culture. They also visited a market where skilled artisans shared how they create traditional products and shared stories about their history. One highlight of the visit was stopping at a special area set up by the Arab Parliament for the Child. This interactive space featured workshops that informed the children about the parliament's role in supporting issues that matter to young people and how they can express their voices. The pavilion also displayed the parliament ' s key achievements and projects that encourage children to take part in their communities and feel empowered to share their thoughts and dreams. The children fully participated in the cultural celebrations, wearing traditional clothes and singing folk songs alongside talented performers. This helped them feel a stronger sense of belonging and highlighted the welcoming spirit of Emirati society. At the end of the visit, the members of the parliament expressed how happy they were with the experience. They described it as a journey back in time that connected them to their ancestors and opened up visions for the future. They were also impressed with how well-organized the events were, capturing the essence of Sharjah as a cultural and heritage hub. Ayman Othman Al Barout, the Secretary-General of the parliament, emphasized that the visit was important in nurturing cultural values in children, as they are the leaders of tomorrow. He noted that witnessing the authentic Emirati heritage helped instill pride and honor among the Arab children, showing that Sharjah is a place that promotes cultural dialogue and unites young people around their shared heritage.
