House of Traditional Games
The House of Traditional Games plays a pivotal role in preserving, documenting, promoting, and introducing Emirati traditional games.
It organizes workshops for children featuring traditional games, girls' folk dances and chants, doll-making workshops, and the creation of models representing traditional games for travelling exhibitions. The House also supervises and trains children in inherited traditional games and participates in almost all activities and events organized by the Institute, as well as external events hosted by government and private entities within the Emirate of Sharjah and beyond. In addition, it contributes to preserving the popular heritage associated with movement, rhythm, chants, and traditional songs.
Objectives of the House of Traditional Games
Showcasing Emirati heritage.
Introducing the different types of traditional games.
Teaching how traditional games are made.
Teaching boys and girls how to play traditional games, including:
Traditional Outdoor Games for Boys
- Ana Al Theeb (I Am the Wolf)
- Al Harb (The War)
- Al Dasees
- Tug of War
- Iron Cart
Traditional Outdoor Games for Girls
- Al Aroosa (The Doll)
- Bas Bas Baseena
- Ana Al Theeb (I Am the Wolf)
- Rope Jumping
Traditional Chants and Folk Dances
- Taah Taah Al Matar
- Ammati Marrat Abuya
- Khalati Ukht Ummi
- National Chants
Programmes and Workshops
Traditional Games Models
Creating models of traditional games for travelling exhibitions outside the Institute.
Doll Exhibition
Organizing workshops for children on how to make dolls and sew traditional clothing.
Traditional Games Workshops
Conducting workshops for adults and children on how to make traditional games.