The traditional Dahha dance captivated audiences during the Eid al-Fitr celebrations held in the Northern Borders region, organized and supervised by the region's municipality at the Arar Cultural Center. This vibrant artistic performance revived one of the region's most cherished folk traditions, drawing a large crowd and enthusiastic participation from visitors who came to enjoy the festive atmosphere.
The roots and rich history of the Dahha art form
The Dahha is an ancient folk art form with a deeply rooted, spirited character, closely linked to the history of the Arabian Peninsula. Historically, the Dahha was performed on battlefields and war zones to instill fear in the enemy or to celebrate victory and the return of warriors. Over time, this art form transformed from a war dance into an icon of joy and celebration at happy occasions, holidays, and weddings. The Dahha is based on collective chants and powerful vocal and physical rhythms. Participants stand in facing or semi-circular rows, with a poet known as the "Masna'" or "Sha'ir" in the center. They repeat the verses after him in an interactive and organized manner, using synchronized clapping and sounds resembling the roar of lions or the bellow of camels, reflecting the courage and strength of the Bedouin people.
The importance of reviving heritage and its cultural impact
Preserving folk traditions like this art form is not merely about entertainment; it carries profound cultural and social dimensions. Locally, showcasing these arts helps connect younger generations to their cultural roots and reinforces their sense of pride and national identity. Regionally and internationally, presenting these heritage performances at major festivals provides an important platform to introduce the world to the richness and unique diversity of Saudi culture, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030, which emphasizes the importance of highlighting national identity and preserving cultural heritage as a soft power and a key element of tourism.
Entertainment options at the Northern Borders celebrations
In addition to the heritage displays, the events featured a diverse program that combined entertainment and education. The traditional Saudi Ardah dance was performed, which was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience, along with magic shows, performances by various dance troupes, and musical performances that created a joyful and celebratory atmosphere. The program also included a national operetta entitled “North of Glory,” which embodied the cultural identity of the Northern Borders region in a sophisticated artistic style, as well as a concert that attracted large numbers of visitors and contributed to the festive atmosphere.
Ongoing efforts to enhance quality of life
The events were accompanied by a variety of recreational and service areas catering to different age groups, including a "Children's Village" for younger children and a "Challenge Village" for adults, in addition to a comprehensive area for restaurants and cafes, providing a complete entertainment experience for visitors. These events are part of the Northern Borders Region Municipality's ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of life, enrich the entertainment landscape, and bring joy to the region's residents and visitors during Eid al-Fitr, while consistently emphasizing and promoting cultural heritage at all national and social events.
