UAE wins silver medal at International Dance Festival 2024 in Vietnam

ABU DHABI: The UAE secured a silver medal at the International Dance Festival 2024, held in Vietnam this August. The festival, organised by Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, welcomed dance troupes from across the globe.

Representing the UAE, the Mubarak Al Otaiba Troupe for Folk and Heritage Arts, under the Abu Dhabi Society for Folk Art and Theatre and supported by the Ministry of Culture, showcased a variety of performances rooted in the UAE’s rich heritage.

The festival took place in Thua Thien Hue Province, where the UAE troupe performed traditional folk arts, including “Al Ayala, Al Nadba, Al Harbiya, Al Habban,” and “Al Madima,” a musical art form traditionally performed by sailors.

With the theme “Convergence, Creativity – Shine Together,” the festival featured over 500 artists from 17 troupes representing nine countries, including Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Laos, the Philippines, the UAE, and the host nation, Vietnam.

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The participation of UAE in the International Dance Festival highlights the Ministry of Culture’s commitment to fostering cultural exchange and promoting culture as a bridge between civilizations, bringing people together through shared artistic expressions.

The Mubarak Al Otaiba Troupe for Folk and Heritage Arts is a prestigious cultural group in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) dedicated to preserving and promoting the nation’s traditional arts. As part of the Abu Dhabi Society for Folk Art and Theatre, and with support from the Ministry of Culture, the troupe plays a vital role in showcasing the UAE’s rich cultural heritage. Their performances serve as a living testament to the nation’s history, bringing to life the customs and traditions that have shaped Emirati identity. The troupe is known for its dynamic and authentic presentations, which are deeply rooted in the cultural practices passed down through generations.

Specializing in traditional Emirati folk arts, the troupe’s repertoire includes well-known performances such as Al Ayala, a dance symbolizing unity and strength; Al Nadba, a traditional form of storytelling through song; Al Harbiya, a warrior dance that celebrates victory and pride; Al Habban, a traditional bagpipe music unique to the UAE; and Al Madima, a musical performance traditionally associated with sailors. Through these performances, the Mubarak Al Otaiba Troupe not only preserves the UAE’s cultural heritage but also shares it with audiences around the world, fostering cultural exchange and promoting understanding between different cultures.