When President Donald Trump arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on May 15, 2025, he was greeted with a vibrant display of Emirati culture that captured global attention. Marking the first visit by a sitting U.S. president in 17 years, Trump’s reception included a traditional performance of the Ayyala dance, a UNESCO-recognized cultural treasure. This “hair-flipping” dance, performed by young Emirati girls, is steeped in symbolism, reflecting the UAE’s heritage, unity, and hospitality. As the world watched, this cultural showcase not only honored Trump but also highlighted the UAE’s commitment to preserving and sharing its rich traditions.
A Historic Welcome: Trump’s UAE Visit
Trump’s arrival in the UAE was a momentous occasion, underscoring the deepening ties between the United States and the Gulf nation. Received by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Trump’s visit was marked by a series of ceremonial events, including a state greeting at Qasr Al Watan, the presidential palace. However, it was the Ayyala dance that stood out, captivating audiences worldwide with its rhythmic movements and cultural depth.
The Ayyala dance, performed by young Emirati girls who rhythmically tossed their hair, sparked curiosity online. Many viewers, unfamiliar with the tradition, turned to social media to understand its significance. This cultural performance, alongside other displays like the lighting of the Burj Khalifa in U.S. colors, underscored the UAE’s dedication to honoring its guests while celebrating its identity.
For more details on Trump’s visit, read the White House press release.
The Ayyala Dance: A Symbol of Unity and Heritage
The Ayyala dance is more than a performance; it is a living expression of Emirati values. Ahmed Bel Jafflah, Senior Presenter and Protocol Manager at the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU), explained to Gulf News the profound meaning behind the dance. “The Ayyala, performed by men in two rows, is a symbol of unity, pride, and heritage—recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It is woven into the social fabric of Emirati life,” Jafflah said.
Traditionally, the Ayyala features two rows of men facing each other, carrying thin bamboo sticks that symbolize spears or swords. Musicians play drums, tambourines, and cymbals, while the men chant poetic verses and move in sync with the rhythm. In the UAE, young girls, known as Naa’shaat, stand at the front, adding a graceful element by tossing their hair side to side. This “hair-flipping” movement, far from being a mere spectacle, reflects modesty, elegance, and the UAE’s spirit of hospitality.
Jafflah emphasized that the Ayyala is performed at weddings, Eid celebrations, National Day, and state events, serving as a joyful expression of togetherness. “These moments reflect the Emirati spirit of hospitality, happiness, and inclusion,” he added. During Trump’s visit, the dance was a deliberate choice to honor the U.S. president and showcase the UAE’s cultural pride.
Watch the Ayyala dance performed during Trump’s visit here.
UNESCO Recognition: A Global Cultural Treasure
In 2014, UNESCO inscribed the Ayyala dance on its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, recognizing its importance not only to the UAE but also to Oman, where it is also practiced. According to UNESCO, the dance “simulates a battle scene” and involves performers from all ages and backgrounds, making it a unifying cultural practice. The inclusion of girls in the performance, with their rhythmic hair movements, adds a unique dimension that highlights the role of women in preserving and celebrating Emirati traditions.
The global recognition of the Ayyala dance underscores its value as a cultural bridge, fostering understanding and appreciation across borders. By featuring it during Trump’s visit, the UAE demonstrated its commitment to cultural diplomacy, using heritage as a tool to strengthen international ties.
A Broader Cultural Showcase
Trump’s visit was not limited to the Ayyala dance. The UAE pulled out all the stops to ensure a memorable reception. The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, was illuminated in the colors of the U.S. flag, symbolizing the strong partnership between the two nations. Trump also visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Abrahamic Family House, a symbol of interfaith harmony, where he left a message of unity in the guest book. These gestures, alongside the Ayyala performance, painted a picture of a nation proud of its heritage and eager to share it with the world.
Learn more about Emirati cultural traditions at the SMCCU’s cultural programs.
Why the Ayyala Dance Matters
The Ayyala dance during Trump’s welcome was more than a ceremonial gesture; it was a statement of cultural identity and inclusivity. In a region often misunderstood, the UAE used this moment to showcase its traditions on a global stage, inviting the world to appreciate its rich history. The performance also highlighted the role of young Emirati girls in cultural preservation, emphasizing that heritage is a shared responsibility across generations.
As Hassan Sajwani, a cultural commentator, noted on X, “The Ayyala dance is a powerful expression of the UAE’s identity, unity, and pride. It is more than a performance—it is woven into the social fabric of Emirati life.” This sentiment was echoed by many online, as the dance resonated with viewers far beyond the UAE’s borders.
Conclusion: A Dance of Diplomacy and Heritage
President Trump’s visit to the UAE was a landmark event, not only for the diplomatic and economic agreements it fostered but also for the cultural exchange it facilitated. The Ayyala dance, with its rhythmic movements and deep symbolism, served as a bridge between nations, showcasing the UAE’s hospitality and commitment to preserving its heritage. As the world continues to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, moments like these remind us of the power of culture to unite and inspire.
For more on Trump’s UAE visit and the cultural significance of the Ayyala dance, visit Gulf News and UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage.
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