US President Trump is on the final day of his four-day visit to the United Arab Emirates. On the last day, Trump participated in a business roundtable where he emphasised deepening ties between the two nations. At the presidential palace, Qasr Al Watan, President Trump received a ceremonial welcome from UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The highlight was a traditional Al-Ayyala performance—an expressive symbol of Emirati heritage and identity. Men in traditional attire moved in synchronised rows, wielding slender bamboo sticks to simulate a battle scene, while women in white gowns rhythmically flipped their long hair to the beat of drums and chants. The performance served as a cultural gesture of goodwill and respect.

What is Al-Ayyala?

Al-Ayyala is a traditional performing art rooted in the cultural fabric of the UAE and Oman. Recognised by UNESCO in 2014 as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, it is typically performed during weddings, national holidays, and festive gatherings. The performance brings together about 20 men in two facing rows, simulating mock battles with bamboo sticks while musicians play drums, tambourines, and cymbals. In the UAE, young girls also take part, wearing traditional dresses and rhythmically tossing their hair from side to side. More than just a performance, Al-Ayyala represents unity, courage, and cultural continuity. The role of the lead performer—often passed down through generations—is key to preserving and transmitting the art form to younger participants.

Why is Trump visiting UAE?

Trump’s visit to the UAE forms part of his wider diplomatic tour of the Middle East, which also included Saudi Arabia and Qatar. In Saudi Arabia, the U.S. signed a $142 billion defense agreement, linked to a broader $600 billion Saudi investment plan in the United States. In the UAE, the visit led to the announcement of $200 billion worth of business deals, along with a strategic agreement on artificial intelligence cooperation. While the focus was on deepening economic and defense ties, the UAE also used the occasion to showcase its cultural heritage. The inclusion of Al-Ayyala highlighted the nation’s commitment to blending tradition with diplomacy—presenting culture as a vital aspect of international engagement.

” Colour me intrigued “

Internet quickly reacted to the Al-Ayyala Welcome. A user noted, “I thought this was some fake AI generated…. looks like its a real thing !! Al-Ayyala. Colour me intrigued !. ” Another added, “Giving tough competition to Indian at embarassing themselves.” “This is the most amazing. Young arab girls swing their long dark hair to welcome Trump. in United Arab Emirates. Apparently, this is an old ritual called Al Ayyala in UAE,” noted a user. A netizen stated, “Turns out it’s the traditional dance.. I did a deep dive and found some interesting things about this and the Al Ayyala. I think it’s lovely and meaningful.”