How Is the Southern Ardah Dance Performed?

The Southern Ardah Dance is a traditional dance from the southwestern provinces of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, particularly in Aseer and al-Bahah Provinces. The performance involves participants standing in two opposing rows, with no more than two m of space separating them. A poet stands in the middle of the two rows and faces the first row, reciting the first half of a verse. Then, he turns toward the second row and recites the second half.

Next, the drums begin to beat, growing louder, and the chanting starts in sync with rifle shots fired into the air. The participants then begin jumping while holding their rifles, swords, or jambiya (traditional daggers), ensuring their movements are synchronized with the drumbeats. The participants sway collectively from right to left, then forward and backward. One or two individuals step out from the rows into the open space between them to perform a solo showcase dance, wielding swords, rifles, or jambiya. After their display, they return to their places, allowing others to step forward for their performance. This rotation continues until the end of the Ardah.