When US President Donald Trump went to the United Arab Emirates -- marking the first visit by a sitting US president in 17 years -- he was warmly received by President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The welcome included a vibrant display of a traditional Emirati performance.
Among the most striking moments was a performance by young Emirati girls, who participated in a traditional hair dance by rhythmically tossing their long hair side to side. This unique display sparked widespread curiosity online about its meaning and cultural importance.
Why was Trump welcomed with Ayyala dance?
Ayyala dance is a long-standing tradition typically performed at weddings, often lasting for several days as a joyful expression of unity and celebration. It is also used to welcome visitors, during Eid celebrations, on National Day, and at official state events. These moments reflect the Emirati spirit of hospitality, happiness, and inclusion.
To everyone confused by the “hair swinging” ritual in Trump’s UAE visit:
— 589bull (@589bull10000) May 16, 2025
That wasn’t random. That wasn’t a TikTok dance.
That was ancient. Intentional. Royal.
Here’s what it really meant:
The ritual is known in Gulf Arab culture especially in the UAE as part of a ceremonial… pic.twitter.com/RT1SYyqG8g
As for the cultural importance of the traditional hair dance performed by young Emirati girls, the hair movements symbolize modesty, elegance, and a distinctive way of honouring and welcoming guests, as per some accounts.
About Ayyala
UNESCO describes the Ayyala as a popular cultural tradition also practiced in Oman. It typically involves two lines of men, typically about 20 on each side, holding thin bamboo sticks representing swords or spears. Musicians perform between the rows, playing a mix of drums, tambourines, and cymbals.
The men sway their heads and sticks in rhythm while chanting poetry, sometimes accompanied by performers moving between the rows and carrying or tossing swords and rifles in the air and catching them in sync with the beat.
In the UAE, girls in traditional dress stand at the front, adding their distinct rhythmic hair movements to the scene.
US President Donald Trump concluded a transformative four-day visit to the Gulf region on Friday, after marking a pivotal moment in US foreign economic engagement by securing investment pledges and landmark trade agreements.
Also Read: Trump wraps up four-day Gulf tour with major investment pledges
Departing from Abu Dhabi International Airport for Washington, President Trump wrapped up discussions with senior leadership across Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Unlike previous diplomatic ventures, this tour remained primarily focused on economic cooperation, rather than security alliances. As a result, the visit yielded significant financial commitments designed to invigorate the US economy and stimulate employment growth.
Speaking to journalists before boarding his return flight, Trump declared a sweeping success for American diplomacy and commerce.
“We’re making great progress on the $1.4 trillion the UAE has committed to investing in the United States across sectors such as energy, artificial intelligence, and manufacturing,” stated Trump. He asserted that foreign investment into the United States could reach as high as $13 trillion due to the tour’s outcomes.
