You can book ayala dancers for an event in Abu Dhabi through the same team that books Emirati folklore troupes in Dubai. Ayala, yola, harbiya and razfa troupes travel to the capital for National Day, weddings, government functions, corporate events, hotel welcomes and heritage festivals. The troupe prices are the same as in Dubai. Travel from Dubai is added to the quote. Send the date, the venue and the occasion, and we send the troupe that fits.
Price: an ayala troupe of 4 to 6 performers usually costs AED 3,500 to AED 6,000, and 8 to 12 performers AED 6,500 to AED 10,000, plus travel to Abu Dhabi. See all prices.
What you can book in Abu Dhabi
Ayala. Two facing rows with canes, drums and chant, for openings, weddings and national occasions. See the ayala dance show.
Yola. Cane or rifle spinning for stages, festivals and family events. See yola.
Al Razfa. The slow, formal line dance for official receptions and guests of honour. See Al Razfa.
Harbiya. The faster relative of ayala, often booked for the men's majlis of a wedding. See harbiya.
Events in the capital
- Government and official events. Abu Dhabi hosts many official receptions, and razfa or ayala is the traditional welcome.
- National Day. Company, school and community celebrations in late November and early December. See National Day shows.
- Weddings. Ayala or harbiya for the groom's majlis and the arrival of male guests. See ayala for weddings.
- Hotels and resorts. A short welcome set for VIP check-ins or a gala dinner entrance. See corporate and VIP welcomes.
- Heritage festivals. Emirati dance with Arabic coffee, henna, calligraphy and falcons.
Permits in Abu Dhabi
In Abu Dhabi the permit body is DCT. A paid performance at a public venue needs DCT approval. Hotels and private venues usually hold their own entertainment licence and only need an internal approval that lists the act, the timing and any props, such as canes or ceremonial rifles. Processing takes time, so send the details early.
Travel and timing
Travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi adds time on the day, so build in an earlier call time for the troupe. Tell us the exact address, where the performers can change and park, and when the guests arrive. For an early morning or a late night event, ask about timing when you enquire.
Book early for National Day and the wedding season
National Day week, Ramadan and the October to April wedding season fill faster than other dates. Book 3 to 4 weeks ahead, and earlier for a large troupe of 14 to 16 performers.
Ask for a quote
Send the date, the venue in Abu Dhabi, the occasion and the size of the space on WhatsApp or through the quote form. You get the troupe and a price that includes travel.
