This application has been specially developed for Abdullah Al-Othaim Markets customers and the beneficiaries of the IKTISSAB program to enjoy an easy shopping experience and take advantage of many features and services.

If you have an IKTISSAB app, you will be able to get an additional cash balance on your card with every purchase you make from Abdullah Al-Othaim Markets.

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IKTISSAB is a captivating strategy board game rooted in ancient Arabic and Islamic history. Played on an 8x8 checkered board, it pits two players against each other in a battle of wits and strategic maneuvering.

Gameplay

The game begins with each player commanding an army of 16 pieces:

* 1 King (Malak)

* 1 Vizier (Wazir)

* 2 Knights (Fars)

* 2 Elephants (Fil)

* 2 Rooks (Rukh)

* 2 Camels (Jamal)

* 4 Pawns (Baidaq)

Players take turns moving their pieces according to their unique rules:

* King: Moves one square in any direction (horizontal, vertical, or diagonal).

* Vizier: Moves two squares diagonally in any direction.

* Knight: Moves in an "L" pattern - two squares in one direction and then one square perpendicularly.

* Elephant: Moves two squares diagonally in the same direction.

* Rook: Moves any number of squares horizontally or vertically.

* Camel: Moves two squares diagonally and then one square forward or backward.

* Pawn: Moves one square forward or captures diagonally forward.

Objective

The ultimate goal of IKTISSAB is to checkmate the opponent's King. This occurs when the King is threatened with capture and has no legal moves to escape.

Strategy

IKTISSAB requires a keen understanding of piece movement and board control. Players must balance offensive and defensive strategies, maneuvering their pieces to gain advantageous positions and protect their King. Key strategic concepts include:

* Center Control: Controlling the center squares provides mobility and attacking options.

* Piece Coordination: Coordinating piece movements to create threats and defend against attacks.

* Fianchetto: Developing a Knight or Elephant diagonally to control long diagonals.

* Fork: Attacking two or more enemy pieces with a single move.

* Pin: Restricting an enemy piece's movement by attacking it along a line or diagonal.

History and Cultural Significance

IKTISSAB has its roots in the ancient game of Shatranj, brought to the Middle East from India around the 6th century. It evolved over centuries, incorporating elements from Islamic culture and strategy. IKTISSAB was highly regarded in medieval Islamic courts and was played by intellectuals, rulers, and scholars. Today, it remains a popular pastime in the Arab world and is recognized as an important part of Islamic cultural heritage.