• Saudi folklore is a combination of poetry, music, songs, saudi dance, rhythm and costumes.
• The traditional folklore dance is known as the ‘ardah.
• The roots of this tradition lie in the Najd region.
• Some saudi arabia folklore troupes span generations.
• The embroidered long coat is known as the daghla.
• The rhythmic clapping is known as tasfiq.
• This folk-music tradition varies in different regions of the country.
• In Hijaz, the poetry is about the Arab Andalusia.
• In Makah and Madinah, the poetry and songs are about the influences of cities throughout the Islamic world.
• Some are combinations of clapping, drumming and group dancing.
• Common props include the long sword in ‘ardah and bamboo stick in mizmar of the Western Province.

read also:9 Endangered Animals in Saudi Arabia You Must Know

• The ‘ardah is a war dance; warriors used to perform it before battle.
• It was a demonstration of fearlessness and enthusiasm.
• In ‘ardah, Al-Takhmir refers to beating the drum twice, and Al-Tathlith is beating the drums thrice.
• Tired dancers rest the swords on their shoulders and continue doing basic steps with the rest of the group.
• Up to 90 performers can participate at one time – two rows of 40 swordsmen with 10 drummers.
• It is reported that these drums sound like thunder.

• In Taif’s Al-Majrour folk dance, performers line up in two rows and dance while facing each other.
• Some carry sticks or drums while others sit down.
• During the dance they spin to the beautiful rhythm and harmony of the sounds of flutes.
• In Tarab Yambawi, a performer stands in the centre of the group holding the Al-Samsamiyah, which is a string instrument. He plays the melodies and tunes which the rest of the group dances to.
• The songs in this folk dance encourage people to work hard and be virtuous.
• The dance is described to be like the rise and fall of the waves of the sea.