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Emirati traditions

Al Taghrooda

Al Taghrooda is traditional Bedouin chanted poetry, composed and recited by men travelling on camelback through the desert. Bedouins believe the chanting entertains the riders and helps the camels walk in time. Listed in 2012, it is the UAE's earliest year on UNESCO's lists.

Updated October 2026 · Facts checked 22 October 2026

Year on the UNESCO list
20121
Year on the UNESCO list
Countries on the listing
21
Countries on the listing

Al Taghrooda

At a glance

At a glance
Item Detail
Name in Arabic التغرودة
UNESCO list Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
Year on the list 2012
Listed by United Arab Emirates, Oman

Source: UNESCO: Al-Taghrooda, traditional Bedouin chanted poetry in the United Arab Emirates and the Sultanate of Oman1

How it is performed

Poems of seven lines or fewer are improvised and traded between two groups of riders: the lead singer chants the first verse and the second group answers. Taghrooda is also chanted around campfires, at weddings and at festivals, especially camel races, and some Bedouin women compose it while working together.1

What it is about

Poems carry messages to loved ones, friends and tribal leaders, comment on social issues, help settle disputes and recall history. Modern verses also cover themes such as safe driving and health.1

Sources

  1. UNESCO: Al-Taghrooda, traditional Bedouin chanted poetry in the United Arab Emirates and the Sultanate of Oman
  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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