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Emirati traditions

Al Ayyala

Al Ayyala combines chanted poetry, drum music and dance and simulates a battle scene. Two rows of about 20 men face each other holding thin bamboo sticks for spears or swords, while musicians play drums, tambourines and cymbals between them. UNESCO lists it as of 2014.

Updated October 2026 · Facts checked 22 October 2026

Year on the UNESCO list
20141
Year on the UNESCO list
Countries on the listing
21
Countries on the listing

Al Ayyala

At a glance

At a glance
Item Detail
Name in Arabic العيّالة
UNESCO list Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
Year on the list 2014
Listed by Oman, United Arab Emirates

Source: UNESCO: Al-Ayyala, a traditional performing art of the Sultanate of Oman and the United Arab Emirates1

The performance

The rows move their heads and sticks in time with the drums and chant poetry suited to the occasion. Other performers walk around the rows with swords or guns, which they sometimes throw into the air and catch. In the UAE, girls in traditional dress stand at the front, tossing their long hair from side to side.1

Who takes part

Performers come from all backgrounds and ages. The lead performer, usually an inherited role, trains the others.1

Sources

  1. UNESCO: Al-Ayyala, a traditional performing art of the Sultanate of Oman and 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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