Celebratory Al-Daha dance at Turaif weddings has deep historical roots

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Performed colectively, the Al-Daha dance includes songs and voices similar to lions’ roar or camels’ grunt, and is performed by young and old people alike. (SPA)
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Performed colectively, the Al-Daha dance includes songs and voices similar to lions’ roar or camels’ grunt, and is performed by young and old people alike. (SPA)
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Updated 27 June 2024
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Celebratory Al-Daha dance at Turaif weddings has deep historical roots

  • The dance aims to either spread fear among enemies or celebrate victory after the battl
  • It includes songs and voices similar to lions’ roar or camels’ grunt, and is performed by young and old people collectively

TURAIF: Weddings in Turaif governorate in the Northern Border province are marked by the celebratory Al-Daha dance which symbolizes community and connection to the land.

Its songs have sounds mimicking animals, including the lion’s roar and the camel’s grunt. Young and old people traditionally perform it together, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday.

In the past, the dance was used to inspire combatants before battle and celebrate victories in the aftermath.




The dance aims to either spread fear among enemies or celebrate victory after the battle. (SPA)

Khalaf Al-Karan, head of the Saudi Arabian Society of Culture and Arts in the Northern Border province, said that normally between 20 and 40 people participate in the dance.

He added that his organization was committed to keeping traditional practices alive, including on national holidays and during various cultural events.

Al-Karan said young people have shown increasing interest in the country’s history and traditions.


GCC secretary general receives China’s special envoy to Middle East

Updated 09 March 2026
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GCC secretary general receives China’s special envoy to Middle East

  • Jun praised the GCC states’ prudent domestic, regional, and international policies, which have established the council as a reliable and important partner for China

RIYADH: Gulf Cooperation Council Secretary-General Jasem Al-Budaiwi received China’s special envoy for the Middle East Issue, Zhai Jun, at the General Secretariat headquarters in Riyadh on Sunday.

During the meeting, Al-Budaiwi expressed appreciation for China’s condemnation of Iranian attacks on GCC states and for Beijing’s efforts with all parties to halt the conflict and end the escalation, according to a General Secretariat statement. 

Jun praised the GCC states’ prudent domestic, regional, and international policies, which have established the council as a reliable and important partner for China. He added that the GCC’s commitment to restraint during the crisis reflects these policies.

The meeting also reviewed preparations for the upcoming China-GCC summit later this year and discussed progress in negotiations toward a free trade agreement between the two sides.