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Al Hawalees - traditional Omani game

by Abraham Richard M
February 09, 2013 , 6 : 45 pm

Al Hawalees, played by two locals at the Muscat Festival in Ameerat

Muscat: Al Hawalees is one of the many traditional games of Oman that is still played by people of all age groups. It is still a common sight in many Wilayahs (towns) of Oman to see two persons playing this game surrounded by a group of bystanders. The game's significance is enhanced by the fact that it doesnot need expensive gear except for a few stones and a sharp mind. Moreover, it can be played almost anywhere.

All that is needed to play this game are 28 holes and 28 stones that are divided between two players. Possessing 14 holes each; the players try to get all their opponent's stones out.The slots are divided into four lines of seven holes, one stone or shell in each hole. The stone from one hole is dropped into the consecutive hole and then the stone from the next hole is moved to the next and so on. This game is mainly played outdoors in the morning or evening.

Taking a look back in time, the game was played by fishermen on the shores after a long tiring day in the rough seas. To win the game, one has to get all the stones of his opponent out. It is played by adults as it needs a lot of logical thinking. The strategic planning is what makes it so interesting for not only the people who are playing it but also for the ones watching it.

Today, the game has travelled from the shores of Oman to almost every corner of the Sultanate. Over the years, the holes in the ground and stones have transformed into wooden foldable boards and pebbles, seeds/shells, but some people seem to like it the old way. Despite the passage of centuries, this traditional Omani game is too good to be forgotten.

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