The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is known for its rich cultural heritage, with each region highlighting distinct folkloric traditions that are unique to the area. One of the most celebrated folkloric dances in Saudi Arabia is the Ardah, a performance that is not only visually stunning but also carries historical and cultural significance through its accompanying songs. The Ardah symbolizes the strong bond between the leadership and the people, with men expressing loyalty and love for their homeland through this majestic dance.
Traditionally, the Ardah was performed as a preparation for war, with the prince of the army inspecting his soldiers to assess their readiness for battle. This performance was designed to boost morale, elicit determination, and courage among the fighters, especially the horsemen. As time went on, the Ardah evolved into a celebratory act, used to welcome victorious soldiers returning from battle. The dance also played a significant role in the history of the Kingdom’s unification, led by King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al-Saud, who recognized its cultural importance before launching efforts to unite the nation.
Key elements of the Ardah include the flag, the mehrab (lead chanter), the rows of performers, the poetic verses recited, the drums, weaponry, and the distinctive costumes worn by the participants. As the Kingdom transitioned to a period of safety and security, the Ardah became a proud cultural symbol, often performed during official occasions and to welcome important state guests. The performance involves two groups: war poem chanters and drummers, with a flag bearer positioned between them, leading the majestic display.
The Ardah begins with stirring verses recited by the chanters, accompanied by rhythmic drumming as participants raise their swords in unison. The rows of performers must be balanced, with individuals either holding hands or forming a circle as they recite verses together. As the performance progresses, the drummers roll the drums, and the rows sway in a knee-bending motion, synchronizing the raising or lowering of swords. The visual spectacle is enhanced by coordinated movements of the drummers using both large “Takhmir” and small “Tathlith” drums.
One of the most visually striking aspects of the Ardah tradition is the horse parade known as “al-Haddwa,” where a horseman introduces himself with chants while riding, exuding pride and enthusiasm before joining the performers. The vibrant and embroidered attire worn for the Saudi Ardah includes garments such as Daqla, Sudairy, Zboon, and Shalhat, often accessorized with swords or guns, adding to the spectacle of the dance. This traditional performance has garnered attention from Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz, showcasing his dedication to preserving the Kingdom’s history and cultural heritage.
In December 2015, the Ardah was included in the UNESCO List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, highlighting its significance on a global scale. Furthermore, the establishment of the National Center for Saudi Ardah in 2017 at the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives aims to promote culture, national identity, and support the arts that are popular in the Kingdom, ensuring that this vibrant and spirited dance continues to thrive and be celebrated for generations to come.
