Al-Hassawi Art

Al-Hassawi Art is a collection of vocal arts, performances, traditional songs, and accompanying dances, performed collectively. It is one of the traditional arts unique to the Eastern Province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The characteristics, names, and performance styles of al-Hassawi art differ from those in other provinces of the Kingdom. The arts that reflect human experiences arise from the lifestyle and activities of the people. There are maritime arts specific to sailors, divers, fishermen, boat builders, transport captains, and commercial vessels. Additionally, there are land-based arts performed during agricultural, industrial, and craft work, as well as arts dedicated to festivals, weddings, and special occasions.

The term "al-Hassawi art" encompasses all the arts of the Eastern Province, as the cultural and artistic heritage of all its coastal and agricultural cities is collectively referred to as al-Hassawi art. The Eastern Province is rich with a wide variety of traditional arts, heritage games, and diverse folklore dances. The residents are renowned for their skill in rhythmic playing, mastery of drumming and tambourine performances, and participation in festivities and celebrations. Additionally, they have an abundant heritage of popular traditions, with people of all age groups often joining in joyful expressions and showcasing their unique arts.

The passing down of traditional al-Hassawi arts from generation to generation has contributed to their preservation and spread. These arts carry an Arab spirit deeply connected to the heritage that reflects the authenticity of the province, describing its history and narrating stories of ancestors and past heroics. Among these arts are al-Hasad (Harvest), Daq al-Habb (Grinding of Grain), al-Liwa, al-Khammari,al-Majilisi, al-Fareesa, in addition to al-Ardah, al-Nahham (Singing of Sailors), Fann al-Sawt (Art of Voice), Mawal, Ya Leil Dana, Barikha, al-Fajri, al-Dazza, al-Haddadi, al-Adsani, al-Haban, al-Mukholaf, al-Dokhla, al-Shayaleen (Religious Poetry), Fann al-Qadri, al-Ardah al-Hassawiya, al-Samri al-Hassawi, al-Ashuri, and al-Hayda.