Al-Hawti Art

Al-Hawti Art is one of the traditional dances and arts, and a type of collective artistic singing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It was historically known in the Najd Region, particularly in Unaizah City in Qassim Province, and is performed by men during festivals and special occasions. This art is distinguished by its unique, enchanting rhythmic patterns, which are full of strength and lively beats.

Al-Hawti art, still performed today, takes its name from Hawtat Bani Tamim. It is performed with the participants lining up in two facing rows, each performer holding a drum in hand, serving as the musical rhythm for this type of performance. The performers sit on their knees, leaving a distance of about five m or more between them, creating a field where the dancing, playing, and showcase take place. In this field, one of the players from either row steps forward during the singing to perform a graceful, showy dance routine to the rhythmic sounds of the resonant drums and the echoes of joy that harmonize with the collective singing voices of the participants. After one player finishes, another player from the opposite row comes forward to perform a similar display. This pattern of singing and playing continues, accompanied by drum rhythms.