Raqs sha'ar hair dance, part of traditional Al Ayyala performance - in pictures

Emirati girls perform the raqs sha'ar, or hair dance, at Al Hosn Festival in 2021. All photos: Khushnum Bhandari / The National
Emirati girls perform the raqs sha'ar, or hair dance, at Al Hosn Festival in 2021. All photos: Khushnum Bhandari / The National
The dance is often performed at important celebrations and social occasions.
The dance is often performed at important celebrations and social occasions.
Girls prepare to perform at the Maritime Heritage Festival on Abu Dhabi Corniche, in 2023.
Girls prepare to perform at the Maritime Heritage Festival on Abu Dhabi Corniche, in 2023.
The traditional dance is part of Al Ayyala cultural performance.
The traditional dance is part of Al Ayyala cultural performance.
Raqs sha'ar is a common sight at festivals and traditional Emirati weddings.
Raqs sha'ar is a common sight at festivals and traditional Emirati weddings.
The hair dance is performed at Al Hosn Festival.
The hair dance is performed at Al Hosn Festival.

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