The Game of Jdeir

The game of Jdeir is one of the traditional games in the Eastern Province of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, specifically in Darin Center, which is part of al-Qatif Governorate. In al-Qatif, it is called "al-Qarra'a." It is a group game played by three or more people, whether male or female, and it is commonly played during the summer.

In the game of Jdeir, small stones or any other alternative pieces such as date or peach pits are used. It is usually played in a sandy area, where each player digs three holes in front of them, distributing the pieces equally.

Three or more players gather to play the game of Jdeir. Each player digs three holes in front of them, placing ten pieces in each hole, whether they are stones, date pits, or other items. One player starts by taking the pieces from one of the holes and distributing them to the right, so that the number of pieces in each hole becomes eleven, except for the hole from which the pieces were taken.

After distributing the pieces in the last hole, the number of pieces in it is checked. If the number is odd, the player loses; if it is even, the player wins the pieces, provided it is not one of their own holes. This game relies on the player's skill and experience, as practiced players can determine which holes to start from to ensure an even number of pieces while not being one of their own holes. The game continues in this manner, with turns alternating among all players in order, until one player wins by collecting the most pieces.