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Emirati traditions

Al Razfa

Al Razfa is performed by men of all ages at weddings and national festivals. Two lines face each other and, led by the main singer, chant Nabati poetry in turn to the beat of drums, while dancers hold wooden replica rifles. UNESCO lists it as of 2015.

Updated October 2026 · Facts checked 22 October 2026

Year on the UNESCO list
20151
Year on the UNESCO list
Countries on the listing
21
Countries on the listing

Al Razfa

At a glance

At a glance
Item Detail
Name in Arabic الرزفة
UNESCO list Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
Year on the list 2015
Listed by United Arab Emirates, Oman

Source: UNESCO: Al-Razfa, a traditional performing art1

From victory to celebration

Al Razfa began as a communal celebration of victory and is now popular entertainment. Performers have adapted instruments and composed melodies for younger audiences while keeping the older forms. Heads of State and elders may perform alongside very young children.1

Passing it on

Al Razfa is learned in the family by watching and taking part. Girls learn from their mothers and older sisters.1

Sources

  1. UNESCO: Al-Razfa, a traditional performing art
  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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