A Passion That Ignited a Movement
Zenah Albahiti is not just a dancer—she is a pioneer. As the first female Saudi Tango instructor, she is transforming the perception of dance in Saudi Arabia. Her journey began unexpectedly when she discovered Tango while studying marketing at the American University in Dubai. The moment she stepped onto the dance floor, she realized that Tango was more than just a hobby—it was a way of life.
For Zenah, Tango became a form of meditation, a way to synchronize the mind and body through movement. She knew she wanted to bring this experience back to Saudi Arabia, but at the time, the country was not ready. Yet, with perseverance and a deep belief in her vision, she is now leading a dance revolution in the “New Saudi,” where artistic expression is embraced more than ever.
From Dubai to Saudi: Building a Tango Community
Zenah’s passion for Tango started in 2011 when she began teaching kids. Over time, she expanded her focus to women, creating female-only workshops and introducing a unique “Ladies Style Tango,” which emphasized the elegance and grace of Tango movements.
Determined to make Tango more than just a dance, Zenah developed the Tango Barre Method, a fitness-based workout that combines the intensity of Tango with the core-strengthening benefits of barre exercises. This method quickly gained popularity, especially among women looking for a unique and engaging way to stay fit.
Her efforts were recognized in 2022 when she officially became Saudi Arabia’s first female Tango instructor. She hosted workshops in Jeddah and even brought Tango to the MC Cruise, marking a significant milestone in the acceptance of dance in the region.
Breaking Barriers: Tango in the Heart of Riyadh
In 2023, Zenah introduced Tango to Riyadh at XP Music Futures, a major event celebrating music and culture. This moment was surreal for her—watching people take their first Tango steps, feeling the energy and positivity spread through movement. It was proof that dance could be more than entertainment; it could build a community of people connected by passion and creativity.
Zenah also started Tango Workshops in Saudi Arabia, inviting top instructors from Dubai every month to teach and help grow the Tango community. Her goal is to make Tango a household name, ensuring that dance becomes an integral part of Saudi culture.
The Influence of Family and Personal Growth
Zenah credits much of her success to her mother, who always encouraged her to dream bigger and believe in her abilities. There were moments when she wanted to give up, but her mother’s words reminded her that she had the capacity to do more.
Throughout her career, Zenah has faced challenges, from skepticism about dance in Saudi Arabia to the difficulties of running a business. One of the hardest lessons she learned was the importance of having written agreements, even when working with close friends or family. She believes that failure is not the end—it’s a lesson that pushes you forward.
Resilience and the Power of Boundaries
As a woman breaking new ground, Zenah understands the importance of protecting her energy. She has learned to set boundaries, not because she is unkind, but because they help her stay focused on her mission.
She also believes in the philosophy that “this too shall pass.” No matter how difficult a situation may seem, she keeps her faith and gives her best, knowing that everything happens for a reason.
What Success Means to Zenah
For Zenah, success is not about fame or fortune—it’s about doing what she loves every day and seeing the impact it has on others. Watching people transform through dance, express their emotions, and find joy on the dance floor is her greatest reward.
When asked about her future goals, she has one clear vision: to be the first Saudi to bring dance fully into Saudi Arabia. She wants to help people express their emotions through movement, whether they are children or adults.
A Legacy in Motion
Zenah Albahiti is more than a dancer—she is a cultural trailblazer, bringing Tango to a country where dance was once considered unconventional. Through her workshops, fitness programs, and passion for self-expression, she is creating a space where people can move freely, feel deeply, and connect through the power of dance.
Her journey proves that passion, perseverance, and belief in oneself can break any barrier. With every step, spin, and rhythm, Zenah is shaping the future of dance in Saudi Arabia—one Tango move at a time. Do follow her on Instagram.
