Top Inspiring Arab Ballerinas

One of the most respected and celebrated dance forms, Ballet Day is celebrated on the 7th of February every year. 

In the 15th century, the ballet was first performed in France and Italy.  Ballet evolved as a sought-after social event in the 1400s, signifying sophistication and social standing. In this article, know more about the popular arab ballerinas.

1. Engy El Shazly

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Engy El Shazly (@engyelshazlyy)

Engy, who is based in Egypt, has quickly established herself as the first Arab hijabi ballet dancer both locally and internationally. Since Engy began training as a ballerina at the age of 27, she serves as an inspiration for people to follow their ambitions. “I like to remind women that age is only a number, and we are capable of anything if we have passion and dedication.”

2. Samira Alkhamis

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Samira Alkhamis | سميرة الخميس (@samiralkhamis)

AlKhamis, who goes by the identity "The Saudi Ballerina," has over the years transformed into a symbol of progress in the Kingdom, shattering stereotypes and ripping down barriers. "I started dancing when I was four. I have four sisters and they all dance. It started with the eldest and then every sibling got involved. Except I decided to make a profession out of it and opened a studio called Pulse Personal Training,” said Samira Alkhamis in an interview with Cosmo ME.

3. Alia al Neyadi

 

 

 

 

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UAE's first Ballerina, Alia Al Neyadi, was guided by her mother, a trained ballet dancer who encouraged her to become the first Emirati professional ballerina. She had a big influence on Alia when she was just three years old and helped her find her passion for dancing.

"Do not give up when it gets tough, whatever you do will be hard but the journey is what is beautiful I have learned that through my own long journey. All the training, and difficulties I had physically and mentally sometimes paid off in the end, made me stronger," said Alia in an interview with Emirates Woman.

The Emirati-Ukrainian ballerina is currently organizing classical dance and music programs with the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi. She has a BA in International Affairs in Culture and Society.

This article was previously published on saudimoments.To see the original article, click here