Boxpark, the hip urban destination by Meraas, will take visitors on a cultural journey through staging traditional Emirati Al Ayala dance performances at 6pm from 21 to 23 September to mark Saudi National Day.

Often referred to as the stick dance, Al Ayala is performed during various national celebrations and festivals across the UAE. The popular folk dance features two rows of men standing face to face, chanting traditional Bedouin tunes and waving their sticks as they step forward and backward to the rhythmic beat of the drums.

Ayala performances are accompanied by musicians playing large and small drums, tambourines and brass cymbals. Historically, Al Ayala was considered a victory dance performed after a tribe’s triumph in war or following the successful return of a team from a pearl diving expedition. The dance form was included in UNESCO’s representative list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list in 2014.

Visitors to the destination can enjoy the cultural performances throughout the destination free of charge.

In keeping with the celebratory vibe, until 30 September, the third edition of the SunSational Summer App offers visitors more than 15 new deals in addition to ongoing promotions at restaurants, shops, beauty salons, health and fitness facilities as well as leisure and entertainment outlets.

Event:             Roaming Al Ayala dance performances for Saudi National Day at Boxpark

Dates:             21 to 23 September, 2018

Time:              6pm onwards

Price:              Free

Location:        Boxpark