Ghaya’s Journey: Dancing Through Storms – A Tale of Resilience in Arts & Culture

Ghaya Fahad Matooq: The 9-Year-Old Emirati Dancer Who Defied the Odds

In a world where dreams often seem out of reach, Ghaya Fahad Matooq, a 9-year-old Emirati dancer, proved that with determination, miracles, and the support of strangers, anything is possible. Her journey to the top of the dance world was nothing short of remarkable, filled with challenges and triumphs that captured the hearts of many.

It all began on April 18, 2024, when Ghaya was scheduled to travel to Manchester, UK, with her dance team from the Edge Dance studio. Their goal: to compete in the UDO British Dance Festival Competition. However, heavy rain wreaked havoc at Dubai Airport, causing flight cancellations and delays. While most gave up hope of making it to the competition on time, Ghaya refused to let go of her dream.

In a stroke of luck, two kind-hearted gentlemen from the airport staff, Mr. Essa Al Shamsi, Senior Vice President of Passenger Operations at Dubai Airports, and Mr. Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports, stepped in to help. Their unwavering support and reassurance gave Ghaya and her team the motivation they needed to push forward. With a late-night flight out of Dubai, Ghaya set off on her journey, determined to reach Manchester by Friday morning, just in time for the competition.

The competition kicked off on Saturday, April 20, with Ghaya showcasing her talent in the U10 commercial beginner category, where she secured a commendable fourth place. Teaming up with her dance bestie, Indea, for the U10 hip-hop/street beginner duos, Ghaya clinched third place, further solidifying her place in the competition.

But it was on Sunday, April 21, that Ghaya’s true moment of glory arrived. Competing for the U10 Solo hip-hop/street dance beginner title, she gave it her all and emerged victorious, becoming the first Emirati to be crowned in the British championship. Her win was not just a personal triumph but a testament to the talent and dedication of young artists from the UAE.

The weekend was a whirlwind of emotions and excitement for Ghaya, as she bonded with Scotland’s Edge Dance team and experienced the power of unity and passion in the world of dance. Her success in the competition was the culmination of a year filled with achievements, including three first-place titles in UAE competitions and a scholarship to the prestigious Urdang summer camp, presented by none other than the founder, Solange Urdang.

Ghaya’s father, Fahad Matooq, beamed with pride as he watched his daughter conquer the dance world. Her unwavering determination and passion had led her to international success, with the support of kind strangers from DXB airport and Emirates playing a crucial role in her journey.

As Ghaya’s story continues to inspire and uplift those around her, she remains a shining example of what can be achieved with hard work, perseverance, and a little bit of magic. Her name will forever be etched in the annals of dance history, a testament to the power of dreams and the resilience of the human spirit.