Sunday 23 / February / 2025
MUSCAT: As Times of Oman marks its 50th anniversary, we reflect on the remarkable journey that has brought us to this significant milestone.
The founder’s unwavering mission was to elevate Oman’s presence on the global stage, fuelled by a deep love and passion for the Sultanate.
Our story began in late 1974, when a telex from Flying Tiger was sent to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs - where our founder, Late Essa bin Mohammed Al Zedjali, was employed - requesting permission to fly over Oman’s KSA airspace.
It was then that he recognised a crucial issue: the world needed to know that Oman was a sovereign nation, distinct from its neighbours. This realisation spurred him to establish a robust media and marketing initiative.
Through relentless effort, the first English-language newspaper in Oman was launched on February 23, 1975.
Throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, the paper faced financial challenges; however, the founder remained undeterred. His commitment to making Oman known worldwide overshadowed the losses incurred.
Notably, during the late ‘70s period, another English newspaper, Akbar Oman, succumbed to similar challenges and ceased publication after just two years.
In a bid to enhance awareness of Oman, the founder generously distributed free copies of the newspaper to universities and libraries worldwide at his own expense, prioritising education and outreach.
Long before the advent of the internet, he subscribed to worldwide news services to ensure that Times of Oman could be accessed even in five-star hotels globally.
He personally financed the distribution of the newspaper on the streets of London, selling it at a subsidised price to broaden its reach. Throughout the years, English-speaking audiences have relied on Times of Oman for local news and updates about life in the Sultanate. The newspaper has played a pivotal role in promoting Oman, both locally and internationally.
In 1993, the Arabic-language newspaper Al Shabiba was launched, a sister publication to Times of Oman. His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik was one of the founders of Al Shabiba.
Continuing its founder’s vision, Times of Oman became the first newspaper in the region to establish an online presence in 1998, offering downloadable PDF editions.
With a substantial following on social media and various digital platforms, the publication has successfully adapted to modern communication methods.
The launch of TFM in 2018 further extended its reach, engaging an audience of approximately 3.5 million daily worldwide.
Despite predictions of decline, Times of Oman has evolved, embracing new technologies while adhering to its core mission. Media transcends mere profit and loss; it is entrusted with preserving national values, aligning itself with Oman Vision 2040, safeguarding cultural heritage, and providing reliable information devoid of the sensationalism prevalent on social media platforms.
As we commemorate our anniversary each year on February 23, we also remember the founder, who was laid to rest on this very day in 2013.
His visionary legacy continues to inspire our efforts to promote Oman’s heritage and culture.
