How many children actually play the traditional Omani games that were once popular among their ancestors? These games used to be the glue that held societies together kept relationships alive and maintained connections between people day and night.
Traditional games in the Sultanate of Oman are a vital part of the authentic Omani heritage and were once enjoyed by a large segment of the Omani population, although sadly, less so now.
"We miss the evenings when we would play 'Hawalees' under the huge tree in the village, with Hawalees boards visible everywhere. Now, it's a thing of the past," says Ibtisam al Maamari, Director of the World Heritage Department at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism (MoHT).
"This decline is mainly due to the younger generations spending more time on gadgets. The Ministry of Culture, Sport and Youth needs to invest more in bringing these games back to life for our kids and future generations," she adds.
Hasan al Lawati, Founder of Arab Board Games, believes that traditional games are not disappearing but are instead being preserved among families. Many young Omanis are embracing board games, reintroducing traditional games in more accessible formats and designs. "In my opinion, if these games are not given attention by the authorities, they will gradually become extinct due to the competition from electronic and modern games like football and basketball," said Ali al Hattali, the official at the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs.
Haider al Lawati, an author, writer and columnist, attributes this decline to modern lifestyles negatively impacting the playing of traditional games. "These games have not become extinct, but their practice has declined as people turn to other games. In the past, many traditional games were played on beaches, like Muttrah Beach, from evenings until night. However, the construction of the Marine Corniche in Muttrah has reduced these games, as some require soft sand, such as the 'Hawalees' game," Al Lawati recalled.
There are many other games involving long sticks, small pieces of wood, and small balls played by two teams, each with six or more players. Shedding light on these games and encouraging people to play them can help reduce the time spent on electronic devices and playing electronic games.
Maryam Khalfan, a journalist and entrepreneur, believes that due to advancements in digital gaming, artificial intelligence, and changes in living standards towards modern lifestyles, traditional Omani games are indeed at risk of extinction.
"In the worst-case scenario, due to communication gaps and lack of social interaction between Gen Z and previous generations, traditional Omani games in many Omani communities are rapidly disappearing," she adds. Meeran Sheikh, MD of Awthar Dhofar International Projects LLC, suggests that incorporating these games into local Omani shops, exhibitions, or hotels could help preserve them and connect people to the culture of their surroundings.
Maryam bint Rashid bin Ahmed al Fazariyah, an academic, feels that traditional Omani games are at risk of extinction due to technological advancements and the popularity of modern electronic games.
Efforts to document and educate people about these games, as well as integrating them into school activities and cultural festivals, could help prevent their extinction, according to Maryam.
Dr Manar Nasser, a Colorectal and General Consultant Surgeon, also believes that preserving these games requires conscious efforts to bridge generational gaps and revive interest in Omani heritage.
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