One of the UAE’s Leading Traditional Folk Troupes
Dibba Al Harbiyah Yola Troupe
Leadership and Vision
Dibba Al Harbiyah is led by Saeed Mohammed Al Shehhi, who oversees the development of the troupe’s artistic direction and future vision. The troupe also has a Vice Chairman and an integrated management team responsible for member affairs, event scheduling, artistic supervision, public relations, and media communications. This well-structured organization has been one of the keys to the troupe’s success and continuity since its establishment.
Digital Platforms and Media Presence
Dibba Al Harbiyah recognized the importance of digital transformation early on. The troupe established an official website and active accounts across social-media platforms, strengthening its digital presence, making it easier to connect with audiences, and documenting its artistic work and history. This online presence has helped its heritage performances reach large audiences in the UAE and beyond.
Productions and Creative Works
Throughout its journey, the troupe has produced several notable works, including:
- “Akhiran” Music Video (2006): The troupe’s first filmed production and its starting point in the world of professional production “Ana Jundi” Music Video (2011): A widely viewed patriotic production that demonstrated the troupe’s ability to create high-quality national works. “Dibba Al Harbiyah 2012” Album: The troupe’s first official album, followed by two more albums in 2014 and 2016, as well as many Sheilat and filmed and recorded songs released over the years. This diverse body of work reflects the troupe’s commitment to preserving heritage while presenting it in a modern, innovative form that appeals to contemporary audiences.
Achievements and Awards
Dibba Al Harbiyah has achieved notable success locally and regionally, including:
- Winning the title “Harbiyat Champion” on Hawaas Satellite Channel in 2008,
in a competition featuring some of the UAE’s leading Harbiyah troupes.
- Taking part in numerous national and private events, as well as Gulf, Arab, and international occasions.
- Representing the UAE at the Arab Monodrama Festival and in a range
of cultural programmes and activities.
- Receiving recognition from government and private organizations for its role
in serving Emirati heritage and reviving traditional arts.
Our Mission and Role in the Community
Dibba Al Harbiyah seeks to strengthen national belonging, pass Emirati heritage on to future generations, and showcase the UAE’s cultural identity through performances at a wide range of events. The troupe continually develops its members’ skills through training and delivers professional artistic experiences that reflect its standing as one of the UAE’s leading traditional folk troupes.
The Principles of Dibba Al Harbiyah
Objectives
- Preserve Yola and Razfa as authentic elements of the UAE’s intangible cultural heritage.
- Represent the UAE with distinction at national and international events.
- Train and develop a new generation of young talent in traditional performing arts.
- Produce heritage-based artistic works that help document traditional arts.
- Strengthen the troupe’s digital presence through its website and social-media platforms.
- Build partnerships with cultural and government organizations to support the sustainability of traditional arts.
- Deliver professional Yola and Harbiyah performances that meet the expectations of local and international audiences.
Vision
Mission
Values
- Authenticity: Preserving Emirati traditional arts in their genuine form, without distortion or trivialization.
- National Identity: Strengthening a sense of belonging and pride in the UAE’s cultural heritage.
- Professionalism: Delivering organized, polished performances of a high artistic standard.
- Teamwork: Fostering team spirit and cooperation among all members.
- Cultural Sustainability: Ensuring traditional arts continue and are passed on to future generations.
- Thoughtful Innovation: Developing presentation methods without compromising the spirit of the heritage.
To revive the region’s traditional arts and pass them on to future generations through professional heritage performances, including all forms of Yola—sword, rifle, and cane—as well as Razfa, Nadba, and Yowab.
The troupe remains committed to the region’s cultural values and to strengthening national identity through participation in national occasions, official events, cultural festivals, and international gatherings.
To be the region’s leading reference for traditional arts and a model of excellence in presenting Yola and Razif professionally—preserving the authenticity of the region’s heritage while embracing artistic development—and to represent the UAE locally, regionally, and internationally to the highest standards of quality and distinction.
Acknowledgements
Dibba Al Harbiyah extends its sincere appreciation to everyone who has supported its success—including institutions, government organizations, and individuals whose contributions have helped sustain its journey, develop its creative work, and raise it to ever-higher levels of professionalism and excellence.
