Trump’s grand Al-Ayyala welcome: All about the traditional ‘hair-flipping’ dance that greeted US President in UAE

What Is Al-Ayyala?

When US President Donald Trump arrived at  Qasr Al Watan, the presidential palace in Abu Dhabi, he was greeted by with a lively and eye-catching display of Emirati culture that quickly captivated the internet.

Elegantly dressed in flowing white gowns, women lined the palace walkway as Trump walked alongside UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. With rhythmic grace, they flipped their long hair from side to side in unison, while men behind them beat traditional drums and chanted, creating a vibrant and ceremonial welcome.

This synchronized performance is known as Al-Ayyala, a traditional cultural dance of the United Arab Emirates. This was more than welcome ceremony, Al-Ayyala is a vivid expression of Gulf heritage that combines poetry, percussion, and pride.

“What a beautiful city! I love it!” said the US president after taking in the cultural greeting at the presidential palace.

The welcome ceremony in UAE continues! pic.twitter.com/sXqS1IboMN
Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) May 15, 2025

Let's take a closer at this Emirati dance form.

Al-Ayyala - Emirati expression of pride and identity 

A traditional dance with deep roots in the culture of the UAE and parts of Oman, Al-Ayyala was recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2014.

This dance form combines poetry, drumming, and choreographed movements that symbolize a battle scene, according to UNESCO.

Al-Ayyala features men in two lines facing each other, holding bamboo sticks that represent swords or spears. It is typically performed during weddings, national celebrations, and cultural festivals to highlight the region’s rich heritage.

At the front, women dressed in traditional attire sway their long hair rhythmically, adding grace and vibrancy to the performance.

Unlike some countries in the region, the UAE allows women to perform openly, enhancing the dance’s cultural and visual appeal. People of all ages and backgrounds participate, led by a master performer who ensures the tradition is passed on to future generations an aspect that sets Al-Ayyala apart.

While traditionally male-dominated, women’s involvement especially in public ceremonies has become increasingly visible in recent years, reflecting evolving gender roles within traditional arts. In the UAE, women are not required to cover their hair, allowing them to take part freely in the dance.

More than just a performance, Al-Ayyala is a living expression of Emirati identity, pride, and cultural continuity.

Trump's lavish welcome

US President Donald Trump concluded his high-profile Middle East tour with a ceremonious final stop in the United Arab Emirates, following visits to Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The trip was marked by extravagant welcomes and symbolic displays aimed at showcasing regional ties and mutual interests.

In Saudi Arabia, Trump’s arrival was escorted by six fighter jets as Air Force One touched down. Qatar echoed the gesture with another fighter jet escort, a camel parade, and a Cybertruck motorcade. He was also gifted a $400 million luxury jet by Qatari royals, drawing widespread attention.

In the UAE, the welcome was equally grand. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi was closed to the public for the first time to host him, and the Burj Khalifa lit up in the colors of the U.S. flag.

A glowing close to a historic day. As midnight falls over the UAE, @BurjKhalifa shines with the U.S. flaga powerful symbol of the respect, friendship, and growing partnership between the United States and the United Arab Emirates. pic.twitter.com/x91LCzolGU US Mission to UAE (@USAinUAE) May 15, 2025

Trump was greeted with Al-Ayyala, a traditional Emirati dance that served as both a cultural welcome and a symbol of national pride.