Exploring Traditional Syrian Children's Games in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Category : | Sub Category : Posted on 2024-10-05 22:25:23

As Syrian families have migrated abroad, many traditions and customs have been carried with them, including the games that Syrian children often play. In cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where a significant number of Syrian expatriates reside, these traditional games continue to flourish despite being far away from their homeland. Let's take a look at some of these beloved Syrian children's games and how they are being enjoyed in the bustling cities of the United Arab Emirates. 1. **Al-Khashaba (The Wooden Stick)**: This traditional Syrian game is a favorite among children. It involves using a wooden stick to draw shapes or patterns in the dirt or sand. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, children can be seen playing Al-Khashaba in parks or outdoor spaces, showcasing their creativity and artistic skills through this simple yet engaging game. 2. **Al-Dabooq (The Marbles)**: Marbles have been a popular game for children in Syria for generations. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Syrian children gather in playgrounds or schoolyards to play Al-Dabooq, displaying their dexterity and strategic thinking as they aim to hit their opponents' marbles out of the playing area. This classic game fosters friendly competition and camaraderie among the young players. 3. **Al-Kahraba (The Electricity)**: Al-Kahraba is a lively game that involves one child being designated as "the electricity" who tries to catch other players by touching them. The other children must run and avoid being caught, showcasing their agility and quick thinking. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Syrian children bring this energetic game to life in parks and community spaces, enjoying the thrill of being chased and the excitement of outsmarting their friends. 4. **Al-Asnan (The Teeth)**: Al-Asnan is a traditional Syrian game that requires players to form a circle and toss a small object, such as a pebble or a beanbag, while reciting a counting rhyme. Players must catch the object accurately to continue reciting the rhyme and avoid being eliminated from the game. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Syrian children can be seen playing Al-Asnan in schoolyards or at home, honing their hand-eye coordination and memory skills in a fun and interactive way. In conclusion, the rich heritage of Syrian children's games continues to thrive in the diverse and multicultural cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Through these traditional games, Syrian expatriate children not only stay connected to their roots but also create lasting memories and friendships in their new environment. As these time-honored games are passed down from generation to generation, they serve as a reminder of the joy and simplicity of childhood, transcending borders and bringing communities together in a playful spirit of togetherness.