In a recent episode of the ‘Suwalif’ podcast, a guest claimed there is no such thing as ‘Gulf art,’ asserting instead that art in the region is exclusively Saudi in origin.
While such a statement could have easily been dismissed, the overwhelming support it received compelled me to address this issue in writing. That said, I do not claim that my perspective is definitive or universally true.
Historically, Yemen has been the cradle of art in the Arabian Peninsula, owing to its rich heritage, abundant resources and proximity to African and Indian influences -- factors absent in much of the peninsula, particularly in the central deserts.
The Yemeni art forms, such as Sana’a singing, are among the oldest musical traditions, distinguished by their profound melodies and poetic lyrics.
This style has earned a place on UNESCO's list of intangible cultural heritage. Additionally, Adeni singing reflects African and Indian influences, while Hadrami singing is noted for its serene tone and melodic sweetness.
During the early 20th century, Yemeni music evolved under Egyptian influence, introducing new instruments and fostering some of the peninsula's most renowned artistes.
Turning to the Gulf region, Bahrain and Kuwait emerged as early leaders in art and culture, well ahead of their neighbors, though Oman’s contributions often remain underappreciated. Kuwait, with its rich and diverse cultural history, has long been a hub for musical and theatrical expression, deeply intertwined with national identity and societal themes.
As a coastal nation, Kuwait developed sea songs linked to pearl diving, fishing and maritime trade.
Traditional forms like Sawt, a blend of poetic lyrics and stirring melodies and Nahma, performed by sailors to lighten the burden of their labor, stand out as quintessentially Kuwaiti.
Additionally, Kuwait boasts vibrant wedding and holiday music traditions, including Khammari and Samri arts. Over a century ago, Kuwait began recording its singers’ music, initially in India and Baghdad, establishing itself decades ahead of its Gulf counterparts.
The mid-20th century saw the rise of Kuwaiti artists such as Abdullah Al-Fadala, Shadi Al-Khaleej and Awad Al-Duwaikhi, who played pivotal roles in modernizing Kuwaiti music.
The theatrical arts in Kuwait also date back to the 1920s, with the first school play, Islam Omar, performed in 1924. The renowned Egyptian artist Zaki Tulaimat later helped establish Kuwait's modern theater scene.
Kuwait also led the way in showcasing women's roles in the arts, with pioneers like Maryam Al-Saleh, Souad Abdullah, Hayat Al-Fahad and Maryam Al-Ghadhban, alongside theatrical legends such as Abdulhussain Abdulredha and Khaled Al-Nafisi.
Moreover, Kuwait introduced cinema to the Gulf in 1955 and I fondly recall visiting the Eastern Cinema with my father, near the Ahmad Tower and Diwan Al-Mulla.
Kuwait has always been a pioneer -- open, innovative and resistant to isolation and extremism. Its rich history serves as a reminder that it will undoubtedly reclaim its legacy, remaining a beacon of cultural excellence in the Gulf and beyond.
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