Omar Aena
Connecting Hearts Through Music, Movement and Travel
“The Beloved’s song rises in the heart,
A music of pure joy,
A whisper of the divine,
That calls the soul to dance.”
- Hafiz
Greetings friend—
I'm Omar Aena, a world music DJ, conscious event producer, and cultural storyteller with roots in New York City and branches around the world.
My journey is one of bridging worlds—honoring my Iraqi heritage while embracing the diversity of my hometown; walking the Sufi path while resonating with Truth from many of the world's wisdom traditions. I am particularly drawn to the transformative power of sacred music and dance as vehicles to connect hearts and souls with their Source.
My mission is to create spaces where people can connect with their deepest, truest selves and shine their light in service to collective liberation. Whether I'm facilitating intimate devotional gatherings in NYC, DJing an Ecstatic Dance, leading international pilgrimages to sacred lands, or producing films that illuminate spiritual music and dance traditions, each offering is an invitation to awaken to our true nature.
Current Projects
Founder, Curator, Producer
LILA is a doorway into the heart of spiritual and artistic traditions worldwide. Through engaging documentaries, immersive international trips and local events, we explore the deep connections between music, dance, and spiritual practice. Our vision is to celebrate and share the beauty of these traditions, while making them accessible to a wide audience for a richer, more inclusive experience.
Founder + Lead Producer
Dance Beyond is a vibrant NYC-based community with a global presence. We bring Ecstatic Dancers from around the world together for transformative experiences, including festivals, retreats, local events, and online trainings. Our gatherings are a celebration of movement, connection, and joy.
Sema: Sufi Whirling Meditation
Facilitator
Sema (Arabic: سَمَاع ) means “deep listening” and refers to a ceremony rooted in the Sufi tradition that combines devotional music, poetry, and whirling movement meditation. It is a powerful, ecstatic practice based on the teachings of Rumi.
Music
As a DJ, I bridge traditional songs of the past with the electronic sounds of the present, creating a unique fusion that spans cultures while honoring my Middle Eastern heritage. My sets start with slower tempos, gradually building to a high-energy percussive peak, and then return to a sweet stillness. Each mix is designed to guide listeners through dynamic sonic landscapes, inviting deep connection and somatic exploration. My intention is to create a transformative space through music, where the sounds move the body to become a vessel for liberation, unity, and authentic expression.
Listen to Mixes Here
Ways to Work Together
Book Me As A DJ
Elevate your event by inviting me to play a musical journey that weaves together a tapestry from around the world. I'll craft a sonic atmosphere that will infuse the space with connection and joy, guiding your community through a soulful exploration of ecstatic beats and melodies.
Facilitate Sema Sufi Whirling
Invite me to facilitate a Sufi Whirling experience at your event, festival or other conscious gathering. I can teach the basics of the whirling dance meditation, hold space for sacred Sufi chanting and facilitate the overall ceremony.
Ecstatic DJ Classes
Learn to be an Ecstatic Dance DJ and bring dancers on a transformative, embodied journey. From DJ mixing essentials to finding your unique sound and reading the dance floor, I can train you to create transformative dance experiences with confidence and skill.
Leadership Coaching
Drawing from over a decade of experience building heart-centered communities and producing 1,000+ conscious gatherings, I support aspiring leaders, community organizers, and facilitators in creating sustainable and impactful offerings. Gain essential skills in event logistics, heartfelt marketing strategies, vision refinement, and financial sustainability.
Connect
Interested in working together or want to just connect and say hi? Fill out some info and let’s get in touch!