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.