This website provides historical, cultural and personal performance information regarding the Raqs Sharqi, or Arabic Belly dance, as it is known in the English speaking Western world.

Part 1: Current and topical information of general interest

From our colleague Adiba

Belly Dance for Health

Great for exercise and enjoyment

Belly Dance Props

For added interest and effect

Belly Dance Costumes

Costume style from traditional to modern

Assembling a Personal Belly Dance Costume

For practice, performance, or instruction

Choosing Belly Dance Music

Choose the music style to match the dance style

Can Anyone Learn to Belly Dance?

Yes, women of all ages and body types enjoy dancing!

Part 2: Introducing mainly cultural and historical items

The Oriental Dances, Raqs baladi and Raqs sharqi

Briefly describes the two main forms of the dance with some references to past observers and their comments.

Origins and History of the Arabic-Oriental Dance

From the distant past until today, the dance lives on.

More Origins of the Arabic – Oriental Dance

The dance throughout history and some viewers  reactions.

Gypsy Dancers and the Belly Dance

The historic roles of the Ghawazee and Awalim dancers

The Dance of Salome and John the Baptist

What is the story and was this an Oriental Dance?

Oriental Dance, Women entertaining women

In contrast to popular notions of night club entertainment, the belly dance is a family activity too.

Male Belly Dance

Some historical and modern references.