The younger generation is seen to be at the forefront of this new trend in this predominantly conservative society.

They see dance as a way of discharging their excess energy and a good form of recreation as well as something that deters them from many undesirable practices.

Several young Saudi men and women are currently engaged in practicing various forms of dances. Most of them are fond of practicing this as a positive way to spend their free time rather than engage in idle talk and unhealthy practices such as smoking.

Some of them told Arab News that they see dance as an outlet to discharge their excess energy, alleviate boredom, enjoy their happiness or get rid of a bad mood.

“Apart from its artistic value, dance is also the best and most enjoyable form of sport,” claimed one dance trainer at a sports club. “It helps the dancers to use most of their muscles they would not normally use even while playing some sports, like the muscles at the end of the spinal cord and those of the heart.”

According to the instructor, one who practices any form of dance would neither get bored nor tired.

“There are several reasons for this. Dance involves not only the body organs, but all of the senses too,” she said.

“When the sense of hearing works, the memory also functions and this helps you to remember the tunes and steps.”

She said as an example, when practicing Arabic dance, her students listen to the songs of acclaimed Arab singer Umm Kulsoom, Abdul Haleem or other noted singers.

“Many elders accustomed to hearing these songs during their childhood as well as youngsters would be very much fond of hearing such songs and music. This would produce an electrifying impact on their mood and subsequently make them happy.”

She said those practicing various dance forms would never feel bored or exhausted because of this.

“They can practice this as a sport to reduce their weight as well as maintain a good body shape. Moreover, it provides them with a healthy environment,” she added.

Razan Suleiman, a 19-year-old Saudi teen, said that she loved dances from a young age.

“I used to practice dancing at home on a daily basis. There are several reasons for this. First of all, it helps me to get rid of boredom. It also serves as an outlet for my excess energy. It helps me avoid bad habits such as smoking or eating excessively,” she said.

Twenty-five-year-old Hatem Naif said he is fond of dancing. “In the beginning, I used to dance with friends at their houses. Even though most of them danced badly, we all enjoyed it and laughed at each other. We saw it as a blessing in disguise as it deterred us from engaging in gossip, quarreling and reckless driving late in the night,” he said.

Laura Muhammad, 29, recalled that she started dancing when she was eight. “I used to dance regularly. As a result, I have acquired flexibility, balanced body weight and fitness. The love of dance also deterred me from smoking,” she said.

Laura sees dance as a major outlet for her to break from her routine. “I am eager to dance inside my room on a daily basis. It is a thrilling experience for me to practice dancing by listening to various songs and music, both Western and Eastern,” she added.