Belly dance has been a popular tradition in UAE . It is based on one of the social dances native to the Middle East which serves as a means of entertaiment that takes place in the desert. The belly dancers are dressed in shiny beautiful costumes. Photo- Maryam.

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Desert Safari belly dance is attended by people of all ages and both sexes for fun and celebration usually in the evening. A cross-section of people waiting for the belly dance performance. Photo- Maryam

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Middle Eastern dance classes are offered , skilled dancers are able to share their knowledge of the dance. A security man in black making sure the people do not touch the belly dancer. Photo- Maryam

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It has been a tradition for professsional belly dancers to wear revealing customes. The most popular venue for belly dance remains the desert. Photo- Maryam

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In Febuary 2007, an Egyptian lady performed her first belly dance show during a desert Safari trip in Sharjah. Photo- Maryam

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Belly dance attracts a great number of people as the music played is very unique. The stage on which the belly dancer performs is covered with a carpet. Photo- Maryam

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Every part of the body is involved in the dance but the most featured body part is usually the hips. The belly dancer usually picks on a random person to come up on the stage and dance with her. Photo- Maryam

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Belly dance is done in an open space usually at night around 7pm. The dance is delayed as it is the last thing that takes place during a desert safari trip. Photo- Maryam

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There are more than 30 different Nationalities who watch the dance. An American man dancing to the unique Arabic music. Photo-Maryam

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A 35 year old Palestinian belly dancer who has been into the job for 10 years. Photo- Maryam

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Belly dance is a common term used to represent past and present styles of folkloric, cabaret, and contemporary dance, originating in the Middle East. This tradition has been in existence since the caliphate period which its main significance is entertainment. Photo- Maryam

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