Al-Sankali Art
Al-Sankali Art is an ancient traditional maritime art in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, known in the Eastern Province, and is particularly popular among the people of al-Qatif. This art combines dance with singing and is considered part of the sea songs and chants popularized by sailors. It was typically performed during sea voyages and just before diving. Al-Sankali art with its traditional dance is considered extinct, as it is no longer practiced today.
Al-Sankali dance style
Al-Sankali dance is performed in groups, with the singer leading the group and guiding the singing, movements, and expressions, known as 'al-Naham.' The songs associated with this dance have a variety of rhythms, each unique in its tempo, distinguishing them from other maritime dances. These songs are light, short, and danceable. It can be considered a common art in the Arab Gulf countries due to shared customs and traditions. However, al-Sankali carries special and spatial characteristics unique to the Kingdom.
Sources
The Encyclopedia of Folklore, Traditional Chants, and Their Various Rhythms in the Kingdom. Tariq Abdulhakim and Ismail Hasnawi, 2013.Al-Qafilah Magazine.