Baladi / Beledi
"baladii", which is a more folksy version of the basic Middle Eastern "maqsuum", is characterized by the familiar two DUMs that lead the phrase. It is probably more properly called "maSmuudii saghiir" ("small maSmuudii") since it has the "maSmuudii" accent and phrase but is played in 4 beats rather than 8. Some say that to play it with the traditional "feel" the accents (after the first) should lag slightly. The rhythm is generally known as "baladii" (beledi, baladi, balady) among the American belly dance community. The word "baladii" means "of the country" or "old fashion" and, I've heard, implies (in Egypt) a bit of a "hick-ness" or folk-ness. This rhythm is very typical (to the point of overuse) for modern belly dance, but the double-DUMs tend to drown out melodic accompaniment -- therefore when playing with a subtle melodic instrument that cannot easily be heard, a simpler version of "maqsuum" is usually preferred. "baladii" is usually played more slowly that a 4/4 "maqsuum".
From Middle Eastern Rhythsm FAQ - http://www.khafif.com/rhy/
From Middle Eastern Rhythsm FAQ - http://www.khafif.com/rhy/