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Emirati traditions

Al Ahalla

Al Ahalla blends performing art and oral tradition and was historically tied to diving trips. Unlike other Emirati performances, it uses no drums or tambourines: performers in circles of up to 60 people keep rhythm with alternating chants and khayzaran bamboo sticks. UNESCO lists it as of 2025.

Updated October 2026 · Facts checked 22 October 2026

Year on the UNESCO list
20251
Year on the UNESCO list

Al Ahalla

At a glance

At a glance
Item Detail
Name in Arabic الأهلّة
UNESCO list Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
Year on the list 2025
Listed by United Arab Emirates

Source: UNESCO: Al Ahalla, a living performing art in the United Arab Emirates1

When it is performed

Al Ahalla is performed at weddings, holidays and public events, often in night-time gatherings that last until sunrise. Poets write new verses on modern themes, so it stays part of current events.1

Passing it on

Families and schools pass it on, and folklore societies run formal training.1

Sources

  1. UNESCO: Al Ahalla, a living performing art in the United Arab Emirates
  2. UNESCO: United Arab Emirates, elements on the Intangible Cultural Heritage lists

Facts checked 22 October 2026. Prepared by Invest-Emirates.ae for general information.

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