Chinese Humanoid Robots Perform Traditional Saudi Ardah Dance in Riyadh (Videos)

Chinese humanoid robots dressed in traditional Saudi attire performed the iconic Ardah sword dance at a reception in Riyadh's China's Embassy to mark the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. The performance, held at the Cultural Palace within the Diplomatic Quarter in Riyadh, showcased advanced robotic coordination merged with Arabian Peninsula cultural heritage.

The robots were dressed in thobes and ghutras, the traditional daily and formal outfit worn by men in the Arabian Gulf. Senior dignitaries attended the reception, including Riyadh Region Mayor Prince Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf and Chinese Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Chang Hua, who watched the bipedal machines perform rhythmic sword movements before diplomatic guests. China Robot Police: Humanoid Robots Deployed for Patrolling in Shenzhen (Watch Viral Video).

Chinese Humanoid Robots Perform Traditional Saudi Ardah Dance in Riyadh 

Synchronised Performance at the Diplomatic Quarter

The exhibition featured humanoid units executing synchronized steps and gestures characteristic of the Najdi Ardah, a celebratory folkloric dance traditionally performed with swords and poetry recitations. The performance combined bipedal balance algorithms with cultural ceremonial traditions.

Footage from the Cultural Palace showed the machines holding ceremonial swords, turning, and bowing in step with traditional drumming rhythms. The display drew applause from the assembled delegation of government ministers, diplomats, and business figures. China's XPeng Starts Production of IRON Humanoid Robot on Automated Line Ahead of 2027 Global Deliveries.

Chinese Envoy Praises Technological and Cultural Showcase

Addressing attendees at the diplomatic gathering, Chinese Ambassador to Saudi, Chang Hua, said: “Our embassy held a reception this evening to celebrate the seventy-seventh anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. We express our thanks to our friends for honouring us with their presence. Chinese-manufactured robots delivered stunning performances that left a profound impression on those in attendance.”

The event highlights growing bilateral cooperation between Beijing and Riyadh across technological and cultural spheres, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 digital transformation goals and China’s expanding footprint in advanced robotics and artificial intelligence.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 30, 2026 06:25 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).