history of folklore dances

The so called “Arabian World” encompasses countries from Maghreb to the Persian Gulf, each of distinguished in history and culture. These countries have similarities and contrasts that are reflected in dance. All the Arabian countries have their own folk dances, amongst which the best known are: Saaid, named after the Egyptian region of Saaid, originates from a form of combat between men using a stick called a Tahtib. Nowadays, women perform this dance in a very soft way without a violent aspect.

Khaleegi, is a dance originally from Persian Gula, where the women wear long and flowing dresses, throwing their hair and mimicking the movements of a camel.

Dabke, which is very popular in Lebanon, is a dance involving men and women forming a line and performing strong movements lead by the music.