For a UAE National Day show, book an ayala troupe for the opening and add yola performers or an Emirati dance group for the main moment. National Day is on 2 December, and most companies, schools and malls hold their celebrations between late November and the first week of December. That is the busiest time of the year for these troupes, so send your date as soon as it is fixed. We cover offices, schools, malls, hotels and community events in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and the other emirates.
Price: an ayala troupe of 8 to 12 performers usually costs AED 6,500 to AED 10,000, and a National Day scale troupe of 14 to 16 performers AED 10,500 to AED 14,000. National Day week costs more than other weeks. See all prices.
Plan around the right dates
National Day is on 2 December. Commemoration Day on 30 November is a day of remembrance, so we plan celebrations around it rather than on it. Companies and schools usually choose a day in the last week of November or the first days of December. Traditional groups book up early, so book 3 to 4 weeks ahead at the latest, and earlier if you need 14 to 16 performers.
Which performance to book
Ayala troupe. The heart of most National Day celebrations. Two rows with canes, drums and chant at the opening of the event. See the ayala dance show.
Yola. Cane or rifle spinning that looks strong on a stage or in a mall. See yola.
Emirati dance group. A mixed programme of Emirati folk dances. See the Emirati folklore troupe.
Traditional Arabic band or oud player. Live Khaleeji and Arabic music after the dance.
Sample programmes
- Company celebration. Ayala or Emirati dance at the opening, Arabic coffee and dates on arrival, henna and calligraphy stations, then a traditional band.
- School event. Emirati dance, Al Sadu weaving and calligraphy demonstrations, a falcon display and carnival games for the children.
- Mall or community event. Roaming yola and ayala shows through the day, camel photos, live luqaimat cooking and giant games.
- Hotel or VIP majlis. An oud player or a traditional band, Arabic coffee servers and an Arabian tent with majlis seating.
Heritage activities
Mix the show with activities so guests take part as well as watch: henna, Arabic coffee and dates served in traditional dress, Arabic calligraphy with guests' names, Al Sadu weaving, a falcon display, camels with handlers, an Arabian tent and majlis seating, and games for families. The whole programme can go into one quote, which is usually cheaper than booking each part separately.
Space and power
An ayala troupe of 14 to 16 needs a wide stage or an open area. In an office atrium or a school hall, measure the floor and clear a strip for the two rows. Tell us about power, sound and any stage you already have. We confirm the space and power needed before we quote. A public venue needs a DET entertainment permit in Dubai, or DCT approval in Abu Dhabi.
For companies
A short ayala welcome in the lobby is an easy way to open the day for staff and visitors. For VIP arrivals or a formal reception on the day, see corporate events and VIP welcomes.
Book your National Day show
Send the date, the venue, roughly how many guests, and the performances and activities you want on WhatsApp or through the quote form. Or ask us to suggest a programme.
