Al-Zamil Art is an old traditional singing art. Initially popular in Aseer and Najran Provinces, southwest of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, it was then performed throughout the southern region. Al-Zamil poems vary according to the occasion. Its performance is rather vocal and features no rhythm. Perfoming al-Zamil art Al-Zamil art is performed on special occasions. It aims to establish cooperation between the village residents or tribe members in specific situations, such as amidst risks or disa...
Al-Fajri is a traditional maritime singing genre and an ancient folk art that gained popularity across the Arab Gulf countries. It derives its name from 'al-Fajiri' or 'al-Jahl' clay instrument, which is the primary tool used in the performance of this art. History of al-Fajri Art Al-Fajri is considered one of the musical genres of the sailors on the eastern coast of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Its name is derived from the Arabic word ' Fajjara ,' meaning to cre...
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. Performing al-Hawti art Al-Hawti art, still performed today, takes its name from Hawtat Bani ...
Al-Tariq Art is a form of traditional singing known in the southern provinces of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is practiced in the outskirts and governorates of Aseer Province , as-Sarah, and Tihama, and has also spread to al-Bahah Province . It is also performed in the Sultanate of Oman. Al-Tariq art and rhetorical devices Al-Tariq art is performed solo, and its singing relies on rhetorical devices, such as Saj' (rhymed prose), pun, and double entendre. Its melodies and themes are fille...
Al-Dil’a Dance is one of the folk dances in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia , known among the people of the southern region and performed on important occasions. History of al-Dil’a Dance Al-Dil’a Dance is among the dances traditionally performed on various occasions, serving as a form of celebration when welcoming guests or visitors, as well as during circumcision ceremonies. In the Southern Province, there are several dances alongside al-Dil’a Dance, including al-Saif (Sword) Dance, the D...
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...
It is one of the traditional arts in the Eastern Province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It was performed to motivate and encourage men to fight during wars. The Ardah of Swords (al-Ardah al-Sayfiya) is one of the traditional arts that is intrinsically linked to the historical heritage of the inhabitants of the province, where they passed down this tradition among generations and preserved it. ...
The Saudi Ardah Rows refer to the arrangement and alignment of performers in a specific format. They consist of two opposing rows with participants holding hands, surrounded by drummers and sword bearers. The Saudi Ardah includes the following elements: the banner (flag ), drums , weapons and swords , attire, and the poet. Formation of the Saudi Ardah rows The Saudi Ardah rows consist of two opposing lines of men, each holding the hand of the next. Each row begins chanting lines of the poem acc...
The Semsemiah Instrument is a traditional musical instrument similar to a lyre. It is used by sailors in their songs and dances on board Sanabeek and Sawa'i (sailboats and ferryboats) and became famous in Yanbu City , west of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This instrument is part of Yanbu’s culture and art. The Semsemiah instrument (its manufacture and performance) was registered with the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization ( UNESCO ) in a joint file with Egyp...
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 Gulf Theater Festival 2024 is the fourteenth edition of the festival. It was organized by the Theater and Performing Arts Commission , one of the commissions under the Ministry of Culture in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The event was held from September 10 to 17, 2024, with the participation of artists, theater professionals, and critics from various Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, presenting a range of diverse cultural and artistic performances and activities. Objectives of the G...
School Radio in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a morning activity program conducted by students in public schools nationwide. It features a variety of educational segments prepared by students under the supervision of teachers. The Ministry of Education adopted the program to enhance students' skills and broaden their cultural and intellectual horizons. Objectives of the school radio program Through the school radio program, the Ministry of Education aims to cultivate self-assurance in bot...