This Pro Series Doumbek/Darbuka (Egyptian Tabla) drum with inlaid Mother of Pearl is crafted in
Alexandria, Egypt. The designs are hand-inlaid on to a durable aluminum body which along with a clear synthetic head produce crisp sounding dums and teks. Includes padded carrying bag
with strap, extra synthetic head, and tuning key.
This Pro Series model is a New Generation 2.0 size which features a 18 inch height and a double beveled base which add projection to the sound.
Weight: Approx. 10 lbs (4.5 kg)
While all of our drums are brand-new, there may be minor cosmetic blemishes on the drum that does not effect the sound. This is common with Egyptian drums and can be caused during drum head installation, tuning, testing, packing, and transit.
18" Pro Series Doumbek/Darbuka (Egyptian Tabla) with Mother of Pearl Mosaic Inlays – DARAWISH from BellyDance.com
The 18" Pro Series Doumbek/Darbuka (Egyptian Tabla) with Mother of Pearl Mosaic Inlays – DARAWISH from BellyDance.com is a striking fusion of authentic Egyptian craftsmanship, professional sound quality, and artistic beauty. Handcrafted by expert artisans in Egypt, this drum captures the soul of traditional Middle Eastern percussion while incorporating the durability and performance standards required by today’s musicians.
Known for its rich, resonant tone and elegant visual design, the DARAWISH model represents the pinnacle of doumbek engineering. Every detail—from the meticulously hand-inlaid mother of pearl mosaics to the perfectly balanced aluminum shell—is crafted with precision, ensuring that the instrument delivers both aesthetic splendor and musical excellence.
The Essence of the Egyptian Doumbek
The doumbek, also called the darbuka or Egyptian tabla, is one of the most iconic instruments in Middle Eastern music. Its goblet-shaped body produces two distinct tones:
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The deep, resonant “doom” (bass tone) created by striking the center of the head.
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The crisp, high-pitched “tek” and “ka” tones produced along the rim.
These tones form the foundation of traditional Egyptian rhythms such as Maqsum, Baladi, Saiidi, and Malfuf, while also integrating seamlessly into modern world music genres. The DARAWISH 18" Pro Series Doumbek continues this legacy, combining old-world authenticity with contemporary performance power.
Exquisite Design and Handcrafted Beauty
The first thing that captivates anyone about the DARAWISH 18" Doumbek is its breathtaking exterior. Each instrument is hand-decorated with genuine mother of pearl mosaic inlays, forming intricate geometric and floral patterns that shimmer under the light. This artistry transforms the drum into a masterpiece worthy of display on any stage or collection shelf.
Every mosaic tile is hand-cut and meticulously embedded into the drum’s aluminum body by master craftsmen in Alexandria, Egypt—a region renowned for producing world-class darbukas. The inlay work is inspired by traditional Egyptian and Islamic art, symbolizing unity, rhythm, and divine harmony.
Specifications:
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Height: 18 inches (45.7 cm)
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Top Diameter: 11 inches (28 cm)
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Head (Playing Surface): 8.6 inches (22 cm)
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Base Diameter: 7.75 inches (19.7 cm)
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Weight: Approximately 10 lbs (4.5 kg)
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Material: Cast aluminum body with genuine mother of pearl mosaic inlay
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Head Type: Synthetic (Remo-style) for durability and tonal consistency
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Tuning System: 6-bolt internal tuning mechanism
Each DARAWISH drum is hand-finished, ensuring every instrument is unique in both visual design and tonal character.
Sound Quality and Performance
The DARAWISH Pro Series Doumbek is engineered to deliver a powerful, balanced, and expressive tone that meets professional performance standards. The aluminum shell provides strong projection, while the synthetic head ensures a consistent tone regardless of humidity or temperature fluctuations.
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Doom (Bass Tone): Deep, full-bodied resonance that carries warmth and power.
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Tek/Ka (High Tones): Crisp and sharp, perfect for fast finger rolls and accents.
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Overall Projection: Clean, focused, and highly responsive across all registers.
The result is a drum that performs beautifully in both solo and ensemble settings—ideal for belly dance accompaniment, recording sessions, live concerts, and cultural performances. The drum’s size and shape produce a commanding presence on stage, ensuring your rhythm cuts through any mix with clarity.
Professional-Grade Build for Stage and Studio
This 18-inch darbuka is part of BellyDance.com’s Pro Series, designed specifically for advanced musicians and professional performers. The larger frame gives it deeper bass tones and increased sound projection compared to standard 17-inch models.
The internal six-bolt tuning system allows precise adjustments to head tension, enabling players to customize pitch and resonance. The synthetic head offers superior durability, making it ideal for touring artists who need an instrument that performs consistently across different environments.
The double-beveled base enhances projection and helps direct sound outward, giving the instrument a fuller, more dynamic tone. Combined with its balanced body shape, this design feature allows drummers to perform with greater control and comfort during long playing sessions.
Authentic Egyptian Craftsmanship
Egyptian doumbeks are world-famous for their unique voice—a blend of warmth, sharpness, and character that can’t be replicated by factory-made instruments. The DARAWISH model is crafted using traditional methods passed down through generations.
The artisans carefully mold and polish the aluminum shell before applying the mother of pearl mosaic. Each drum is tuned and tested by hand to ensure that it meets the exacting tonal standards expected by professional darbuka players.
Owning this drum means owning a true piece of Egyptian musical heritage—an instrument that honors the rhythms, traditions, and craftsmanship of a culture deeply connected to music and movement.
Included Accessories
Each 18" Pro Series Doumbek (DARAWISH) from BellyDance.com comes with premium accessories designed to protect and maintain your instrument:
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Padded Carrying Bag: Protects the drum during transport and storage.
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Extra Synthetic Head: A backup head for quick replacement.
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Tuning Key: For precise adjustments of the six-bolt tuning system.
These accessories ensure that your doumbek is always ready to perform, whether you’re rehearsing at home or playing on an international stage.
Ideal for Performers and Enthusiasts
The DARAWISH 18" Pro Series Doumbek is suitable for:
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Professional Percussionists: Delivering high-volume projection and tonal accuracy for stage and studio work.
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Belly Dance Musicians: Offering clarity and control for rhythmic synchronization with dancers.
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Music Educators and Students: Providing an authentic learning experience with a drum that teaches proper tone production and rhythm articulation.
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Collectors and Cultural Enthusiasts: Serving as a visually stunning and historically significant addition to any collection.
The combination of visual art and acoustic power makes this drum a perfect choice for anyone serious about the craft of Middle Eastern percussion.
Maintenance and Care
To preserve the beauty and longevity of your DARAWISH Doumbek, follow these care guidelines:
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Tuning: Use the included key to adjust bolts evenly in small increments to maintain even tension.
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Cleaning: Gently wipe the surface with a soft, dry cloth after each use to remove oils and fingerprints.
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Avoid Moisture: While the drum is durable, prolonged exposure to moisture may dull the finish or affect tuning stability.
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Protect the Inlays: The mother of pearl surface should be handled with care to prevent scratches. Store the drum in its padded bag when not in use.
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Temperature: Avoid extreme heat or cold, as rapid temperature changes can affect the synthetic head tension.
By caring for your drum properly, you’ll ensure it remains in pristine condition for years of performances.
Cultural and Symbolic Significance
The DARAWISH name pays tribute to the “Dervishes”—spiritual mystics known for their meditative dance and rhythmic devotion. The name perfectly reflects the harmony between rhythm and spirituality that this drum embodies.
The mother of pearl inlay represents purity and light, often symbolizing transformation and divine inspiration in Egyptian culture. When combined with the resonant sound of the doumbek, these visual elements create an instrument that embodies both aesthetic beauty and spiritual depth.
Playing this darbuka is not just a musical experience—it’s a cultural dialogue. Each beat connects the player to centuries of Egyptian history, storytelling, and artistic expression.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the DARAWISH model handmade?
A: Yes, every DARAWISH drum is handcrafted in Egypt by skilled artisans who specialize in traditional doumbek construction.
Q: Can this drum be used by beginners?
A: While it’s designed for professionals, dedicated beginners can benefit from its consistent tuning and balanced feel. It’s an excellent instrument for serious learners.
Q: How does it compare to smaller doumbeks?
A: The 18" size offers a deeper bass and more projection than smaller 17" or 16" models, making it ideal for performance use.
Q: Does it come ready to play?
A: Yes, it ships fully assembled, tuned, and includes all accessories for immediate use.
A Masterpiece of Sound, Art, and Heritage
The 18" Pro Series Doumbek/Darbuka (Egyptian Tabla) with Mother of Pearl Mosaic Inlays – DARAWISH from BellyDance.com is not just an instrument—it’s a statement of artistry, history, and passion. From its shimmering inlaid design to its commanding sound presence, it’s a true work of art that embodies the rhythm and soul of Egypt.
Whether you are performing live, recording in a studio, or accompanying dancers in motion, the DARAWISH delivers flawless tone and elegance. Each beat resonates with the heritage of Egypt’s musical legacy, reminding performers of the timeless power of rhythm to unite cultures and inspire movement.
