Latest
Newest on Raqs Atlas
Features · 23 September 2026
How to Dance With a Live Arabic Orchestra: A Dancer’s Guide to Listening, Improvising and Connecting
Dancing with live Arabic music is less about memorizing every note and more about learning to listen, respond and leave room for the musicians. This practical guide explains the ensemble, the musical cues that matter most and how to prepare for your first live-band performance.
By Raqs Atlas team
Travel · 22 September 2026
Dancing in Morocco: A Guide to Living Dance Traditions, Music and Respectful Travel
Morocco is not a single dance style, and that is exactly what makes it fascinating. This guide helps dancers explore the country through its music, communal dance traditions, festivals, cities and everyday culture - without confusing Moroccan traditions with Egyptian-style raqs sharqi.
By Raqs Atlas team
Stories · 22 September 2026
Alraqs Festival 2026: Cyprus Builds a Meeting Point for Oriental Dance
Cyprus is preparing for the fifth edition of Alraqs Festival this December. Founded by Cypriot dancer Alexia Nadirah, the Nicosia gathering combines international and local teachers, competition, gala performance, workshops, a welcome party and a dance bazaar - and its 2026 programme offers an interesting snapshot of the island’s growing Oriental dance community.
By Raqs Atlas team
Stories · 21 September 2026
Puerto Rico Bellydance Fusion Fest 2026: San Juan Sets the Stage for a Three-Day Dance Weekend
San Juan is preparing for three days of belly dance, fusion, workshops and performance this autumn. Here is what has been officially announced for Puerto Rico Bellydance Fusion Fest 2026 - including the competition deadline, workshop line-up and the details dancers should know before making plans.
By Raqs Atlas team
Features · 20 September 2026
How to Hear an Arabic Takht: A Dancer’s Guide to Oud, Qanun, Nay, Violin and Riqq
A dancer does not need to become a musicologist to dance more musically. Learning to recognize the voices inside an Arabic takht can transform the way you hear phrasing, texture, emotion and rhythm - and make your movement feel much more connected to the music.
By Raqs Atlas team
Stories · 19 September 2026
Zaghrouta Explained: The Joyful Arab Ululation Heard at Weddings and Celebrations
You may hear it before you see the bride, in the middle of a dance, or at the exact moment a room erupts in celebration: that unmistakable high, trilling cry of joy. Meet the zaghrouta - one of the Arab world’s most instantly recognizable sounds of celebration.
By Raqs Atlas team
Section
Stories
Stories · 22 September 2026
Alraqs Festival 2026: Cyprus Builds a Meeting Point for Oriental Dance
Cyprus is preparing for the fifth edition of Alraqs Festival this December. Founded by Cypriot dancer Alexia Nadirah, the Nicosia gathering combines international and local teachers, competition, gala performance, workshops, a welcome party and a dance bazaar - and its 2026 programme offers an interesting snapshot of the island’s growing Oriental dance community.
By Raqs Atlas team
Stories · 21 September 2026
Puerto Rico Bellydance Fusion Fest 2026: San Juan Sets the Stage for a Three-Day Dance Weekend
San Juan is preparing for three days of belly dance, fusion, workshops and performance this autumn. Here is what has been officially announced for Puerto Rico Bellydance Fusion Fest 2026 - including the competition deadline, workshop line-up and the details dancers should know before making plans.
By Raqs Atlas team
Stories · 19 September 2026
Zaghrouta Explained: The Joyful Arab Ululation Heard at Weddings and Celebrations
You may hear it before you see the bride, in the middle of a dance, or at the exact moment a room erupts in celebration: that unmistakable high, trilling cry of joy. Meet the zaghrouta - one of the Arab world’s most instantly recognizable sounds of celebration.
By Raqs Atlas team
Section
Features
Features · 25 September 2026
The Belly Dancer’s Travel Packing Kit: 5 Smart Organizers for Costumes, Jewelry and Shoes
Rhinestones, fringe, jewelry, shoes, makeup and last-minute repairs make a dancer’s suitcase very different from ordinary holiday luggage. These five affordable organizers can help keep performance gear separated, visible and easier to protect on the road.
By Raqs Atlas team
Features · 23 September 2026
How to Dance With a Live Arabic Orchestra: A Dancer’s Guide to Listening, Improvising and Connecting
Dancing with live Arabic music is less about memorizing every note and more about learning to listen, respond and leave room for the musicians. This practical guide explains the ensemble, the musical cues that matter most and how to prepare for your first live-band performance.
By Raqs Atlas team
Features · 20 September 2026
How to Hear an Arabic Takht: A Dancer’s Guide to Oud, Qanun, Nay, Violin and Riqq
A dancer does not need to become a musicologist to dance more musically. Learning to recognize the voices inside an Arabic takht can transform the way you hear phrasing, texture, emotion and rhythm - and make your movement feel much more connected to the music.
By Raqs Atlas team
Section
Travel
Section
