‘A Timeless Chronicle’

As Times of Oman celebrates its golden jubilee, I find myself reflecting on the remarkable journey this newspaper has taken over the past five decades. A publication that has been an unwavering pillar of news and information, it has truly been a part of the expatriate experience in Oman. I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the entire team on reaching this magnificent milestone of 50 years!

When I first arrived in Muscat in January 1975, the city felt like a world apart. Though international publications were flown in daily, there was a significant void when it came to local news and insights. With no television or digital media outlets, staying connected to the fast-changing landscape of Oman was a challenge. The expatriate community often felt disconnected, relying on word-of-mouth and outdated international newspapers to stay informed. Then, Times of Oman arrived - a game-changer.

The debut of an English-language newspaper in the Sultanate was a momentous occasion, filling a crucial gap. I vividly remember the sense of excitement and curiosity within the expatriate community. It felt like the beginning of a new era, one in which we could finally have access to news that mattered to us, tailored to reflect the changes and developments taking place in Oman.

In the early days, I recall that Times of Oman was distributed free of charge to corporate offices - a strategic move that quickly made it a staple among expatriates. The newspaper’s widespread distribution ensured that it reached a wide audience, and soon it became an essential part of daily life for many.

The timing of the newspaper’s arrival could not have been more fitting. Oman was on the cusp of rapid transformation, with massive infrastructure projects reshaping the country.

Roads, schools, hospitals, and airports were all being developed, and these were stories that mattered to the people living here. For expatriates like myself, having a reliable source of local news became invaluable, as it helped us better understand the nation’s evolving landscape and its future direction.

The visionary leadership of Late Essa bin Mohammed Al Zedjali, the founder of Times of Oman, deserves special mention. His foresight and commitment to providing a credible, consistent, and informative news source were revolutionary at the time. Al Zedjali understood the importance of a media platform that could unite the diverse expatriate community while keeping them informed about the progress and challenges facing the country. His dedication laid the foundation for the success of the publication.

As the years passed, Times of Oman became synonymous with in-depth reporting on key developments across various sectors - be it infrastructure, social welfare, sports, or culture. Its ability to reflect the spirit of Oman and its people, while keeping pace with the nation’s remarkable progress, has always been one of its defining features. The newspaper’s coverage has not only highlighted the country’s growth but has also celebrated its heritage and traditions.

In today’s digital age, Times of Oman has evolved, embracing new technologies and platforms to reach a wider audience. The shift to digital media has been seamless, yet the commitment to high-quality journalism remains as strong as ever. The newspaper has managed to preserve its credibility while adapting to modern demands, proving that its legacy is built on more than just tradition.

As we celebrate this significant milestone, I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to the management, the editorial team, and all those who have played an integral role in shaping Times of Oman into the institution it is today. Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to journalism have made Times of Oman an invaluable resource for both expatriates and Omanis alike.

Looking ahead, I have no doubt that Times of Oman will continue to flourish and adapt, just as Oman itself does. Its role in reflecting the progress of the nation and the aspirations of its people will remain as essential as ever. May the next 50 years bring even greater success and contributions to the media landscape.

Best wishes for continued excellence!

(The author is a businessman, who completed 50 years in Oman on January 10, 2025).