Exploring The Cultural Significance Of Traditional Saudi Ardah In Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is rich in cultural traditions, with each region displaying unique folkloric practices that align with the natural surroundings. Among these traditions is the Saudi Ardah, a well-known group dance performed by men. This dance is celebrated not only for its beauty but also for its historical and cultural songs. Ardah represents the unity between the leadership and the people, symbolising loyalty and love for the homeland.

Originally, Ardah was performed as a preparation for war. The prince would inspect his soldiers to evaluate their readiness for battle. It was a grand performance aimed at boosting morale and instilling courage, especially among horsemen. After battles, it celebrated victorious soldiers returning home. King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al-Faisal Al Saud recognised its importance during the Kingdom's unification efforts.

The Saudi Ardah is distinguished by its majesty and dignity. Performers form orderly rows, raise flags, and wield swords in a visually striking scene unified by traditional attire. The performance concludes with "Al-Zamia," where participants loudly declare allegiance under the flag of their leader. Key elements include flags, poems, drums, weaponry, costumes, and Al-Zamia.

In modern times, as the country enjoys peace and security, Ardah has become a joyful expression of cultural pride. It is performed on official occasions and to welcome important state guests, including heads of states. The performance involves two groups: war poem chanters and drummers, with a flag bearer positioned between them.

The performance begins with Hawraba or Shobash. A poet with a powerful voice recites stirring verses to assemble performers in two opposing rows of 40 to 50 participants. These rows must be balanced; performers hold hands or form a circle while reciting verses together.

The physical aspect starts with "al-Nazr," where performers lean right and left while stationary. As the second half of the poem is recited, drums roll, and rows sway right and left with knee-bending motions. Throughout this process, performers raise or lower swords or place them on their shoulders in synchronised rhythm during verses praising the country and leader.

Traditional Attire

The attire worn for Saudi Ardah features bright colours and embroidery. Garments include Daqla, Sudairy, Zboon, Shalhat (a loose dress with wide sleeves), Bisht, Sayah, Jokha, and Qarmalia (the drummers' attire). These are often accessorised with a sword or gun.

Two types of drums are used: the large "Takhmir" and small "Tathlith," played with sticks having curved ends. Drums are covered with camel skin decorated with colourful threads. Drummers perform coordinated movements by raising and lowering drums while jumping energetically.

Cultural Significance

A horse parade known as "al-Haddwa" is part of this tradition. Here, a horseman introduces himself by chanting on horseback before joining other performers enthusiastically exchanging chants.

Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud has shown interest in preserving this cultural heritage. In December 2015, Ardah was included in UNESCO's List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Furthermore, in 2017 the National Center for Saudi Ardah was established at King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research & Archives to promote culture & national identity while supporting popular arts within Saudi Arabia.

With inputs from SPA