Emirati culture inspires singer Assala’s Khorfakkan gig

Renowned icon of the East Assala performed at the Khorfakkan Amphitheatre in the Emirate of Sharjah on Saturday as part of the “Let’s Khorfakkan” season, drawing a large audience to one of the UAE’s most scenic outdoor venues for an evening of Arab music.

Assala appeared on stage in attire inspired by the Gulf heritage, including the Emirati Burqa, a choice that embodied the cultural identity of the city and the amphitheatre’s setting between the sea and the mountains.

The singer said that audience interaction is central to any live performance. She noted that Khorfakkan audiences are known for their attentiveness and engagement, which she described as essential to the success of a concert.

Assala added that the amphitheatre offers artists a different experience from traditional indoor venues, with the natural surroundings forming part of the performance rather than simply serving as a setting. According to the acclaimed artist, the city’s calm environment contributes to a sense of ease that is felt by both performers and audiences.

The artist said her choice to wear traditional attire was intended as a gesture of appreciation to the city and to audiences in Sharjah and Khorfakkan, where she has performed on several occasions, with the location holding a special place in her memory.

Assala performed a mix of her hits throughout the evening, moving between various songs that have defined her career. Assala opened her performance with popular song “Touk Ala Bali” (On My Mind), followed by the emotional song “Al-soura” (The Picture), before picking up the pace with the lively “Manga” (Mango), keeping the crowd captivated.

The audience’s excitement built further as they cheered while Assala performed “Kathar Allah Khair” (Many Thanks) and “Keifkom” (How Are You). She then performed “Rouh w Rouh” (Soul to Soul) and “Bent Akaber” (Daughter of Nobles), which had the audience singing along.

The evening continued with “Talabtak” (Request) and “La Salam”, bringing a more reflective moment for the audience to enjoy Assala’s melodies. The crowd’s enthusiasm returned with “Hadrat Al-Mawqif” (The Moment), one of the night’s standout highlights.

She later performed “Wahsha” (Longing), “Aqrab Qareeb” (Closest One), “Aada” (Habit), and “Sou’al Baseet” (Simple Question), moving effortlessly between nostalgic moments and upbeat songs.

The audience clapped along to “Tasadda” (Believe) and “Isma’ Sada Sawtak” (Hear Your Echo) before the night ended with “Ma Aaraftik” (I Don’t Recognise You) and “Ghalban” (Defeated).