‘Al Khaleej’ is the history of a nation: Sheikh Sultan

On October 19, 1970, "Al Khaleej" newspaper was launched, born from the steadfast vision of two dedicated brothers, the late Taryam Omran and Dr. Abdullah Omran, may their souls rest in peace. They fulfilled their dream by founding a significant media institution that voices the concerns of the region's people, conveying events and updates on their behalf.

It has grown into an impressive entity, marked by a consistently optimistic outlook and a bright future. Over time, the newspaper gained prominence, strengthening its foundation and reputation. It has remained a pioneering institution, committed to honest dialogue and bold perspectives. It has evolved into a comprehensive media organization, recognized for its language proficiency, integrity of words, professional excellence, and objective reporting, always embracing the truth with unwavering conviction. As a result, it has garnered widespread respect and acclaim.

Reflecting on the journey as 56 years have passed since "Al Khaleej" embarked on this path, characterized by brilliance, competence, and a strong presence in the media world, evokes a poignant sense of nostalgia. These memories are deeply engraved in collective memory, evoking fond recollections of the past.

Glimpses of the newsroom as it was then.

Despite the passing years, these memories have only solidified for those who hold them dear, resonating in quiet reflection. Although the founders are gone in body, their legacy persists, nurturing a shared pride. This saga is one of unity in adversity, overcoming challenges to achieve leadership through a potent pan-Arab media platform, continuously surpassing its own milestones.

Momentous events

"Al Khaleej" has been integral to chronicling momentous events in the nation's history, engaging with them thoughtfully and effectively as a vital pillar of support. Especially noteworthy was its significant role in the founding of the Union, led by founding fathers like Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum (may their souls rest in peace). Additionally, the Taryam brothers played active roles in the negotiations that established and built the federal state, served within federal institutions and ministries, and consistently emphasized the enduring significance and vital importance of the Union.

Chronicling the UAE’s goals

In a distinguished tribute, His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, regards "Al Khaleej" newspaper as more than just a publication. He sees it as the history of a nation, reflecting its civilisational image, stature, and esteemed position. He notes that the newspaper has chronicled the nation's efforts and goals throughout its journey of development and progress. It has played a key role in raising awareness and showcasing the achievements realized through the wise leadership's vision and the people's sacrifices.

A look at its history shows that "Al Khaleej", which started with an eight-page, black-and-white inaugural issue, was dedicated from the start to a clear and focused media mission. This mission has emphasized reinforcing Arab and Islamic civilisational identity and cultural uniqueness; promoting unity within the Gulf based on Arab identity and pan-Arab belonging; defending national and pan-Arab issues; and advocating for justice universally. Additionally, it has been a platform for reporting on societal matters, the Gulf region, the Arab world, and global events.

A shared history

Taryam Omran emphasised an insightful perspective on the Gulf, stating that those who view it narrowly, as merely a collection of isolated human communities, fail to grasp its essence. A single look at this expanse of water reveals its true nature as a force that has intertwined the lives of all who reside along its shores through a tapestry of shared history, customs, hardships, and joys. He elaborated further, reflecting on the collective pain inherited from a past marked by destitution. The people here bear the same weathered complexions shaped by the salt-laden air, and share in the sorrow for those who left and never returned. This endeavour, he explained, is driven by a profound longing to reconnect with a common origin, a shared labour of life and birth.

Taryam Omran and Dr Abdullah Omran pose with the staff. File

The essence of "Al Khaleej" is to ensure that the Arabs of the Gulf can read and reflect upon it as one people, across the same waters, at the same time. While undoubtedly ambitious, this effort symbolizes not just an ancient bond, but one that is continually renewed and everlasting. It is a vision of unity, one that transcends borders and distances, to create a newspaper for a Gulf united in spirit.

Unwavering determination

Establishing a newspaper in the Arabian Gulf more than half a century ago was an extraordinarily challenging endeavour. Yet brothers Taryam and Abdullah Omran managed to bring this vision to life through sheer determination and unyielding resolve. Their journey toward creating a media platform was marked by relentless effort and persistence. What began as an ambitious idea took shape in 1968, when the brothers participated in the official delegation from the Emirate of Sharjah during the negotiations leading up to the formation of the Union. It was in this context that their aspiration to delve into the world of journalism crystallized.

As Taryam Omran later reflected, the political environment at the time was fraught with uncertainty and turbulent risks, posing significant challenges for the emirates. The absence of a unified political framework left the region vulnerable, underscoring the urgency of advocating for a cooperative entity capable of steering through these pressing issues. The discovery of oil and the region's growing geopolitical significance further amplified the necessity of such unity. This belief propelled the brothers' resolve to create a platform that could contribute meaningfully to fostering dialogue and understanding within the region.

'Al Shorooq' takes shape

The brothers decided to embark on establishing a political platform, a publication dedicated to unveiling, analyzing, and debating the realities of the region. Their journey began with "Al Shorooq," a monthly political magazine that laid the foundation for their larger vision of launching a full-fledged newspaper. However, they faced significant hurdles, not least of which was their limited financial resources. The costly venture seemed almost impossible, compounded by the lack of suitable printing facilities within the Emirates.

Over time, the newspaper gained prominence, strengthening its foundation and reputation.

Rather than concede defeat, they turned to Kuwait, where they sought assistance from Fajhan Hilal Al Mutairi, a publisher who, along with his wife Ghanima Fahad Al Marzouq, produced a family magazine titled "Usrati" (My Family) and operated a contemporary printing press. Al Mutairi, impressed by Taryam and Abdullah's dedication, values, and strategic foresight, agreed to print "Al Shorooq" on credit.

Later, this support extended to their newspaper, "Al Khaleej." Not only did he provide typing and printing facilities, but he also allowed them to develop a distinct editorial style that gave their publications unique identities. Every month, during its final week, Taryam Omran would personally undertake the journey from Sharjah to Kuwait, carrying with him all the prepared editorial materials. After overseeing the printing process, he would return with freshly printed copies, a laborious process that spoke volumes about their commitment and passion for their groundbreaking venture.

The establishment of the Union

The publication of Al Khaleej did not last very long. On February 29, 1972, the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father, may his soul rest in peace, entrusted the two brothers with responsibilities in support of the new Union. Consequently, Al Khaleej ceased operations during a period of rapid political developments leading to the creation of the UAE. Taryam and Dr Abdullah Omran played a significant role in the negotiations that were instrumental in forming the Union, further contributing by serving in various federal institutions and ministries.

A file picture of Al Khaleej building.

Almost a decade later, on April 5, 1980, Al Khaleej resumed operations. Both Taryam and Dr Abdullah Omran dedicated themselves to steering the organization, holding successive positions as chairmen of its Board of Directors, first Taryam Omran Taryam, followed by Dr Abdullah Omran Taryam.

New production lines

Over the years, Dar Al Khaleej for Press, Printing, and Publishing has stayed abreast of global technological advances, integrating them into all areas of its operations to enhance journalism and printing. The organization has continually upgraded its printing facilities, adding new production lines to its existing setup in Sharjah. These state-of-the-art facilities are equipped with advanced machinery designed to refine technical specifications, ensuring the output meets high international standards. In 2011, Dar Al Khaleej introduced a cutting-edge printing line featuring the latest innovations in the industry. This system can produce 40 full-colour newspaper pages at once and boasts high production capacity. When using the dryer, the press can produce 50,000 copies of the newspaper per hour; without it, this increases to 70,000 copies per hour. This new press is among the most advanced worldwide, equipped with state-of-the-art technology from Manroland (CromoMan).

Environmentally conscious innovation

The new printing press sets a benchmark for eco-friendly technology. It features dual afterburners that effectively incinerate smoke generated by the ovens and inking/dyeing units, transforming it into an environmentally safe, odourless gas that is non-hazardous to human health. These advanced combustion systems ensure that all emissions are thoroughly processed, resulting in the release of entirely clean air into the environment.

With the inclusion of this cutting-edge machinery, Dar Al Khaleej’s printing facilities now boast the capability to print four newspapers concurrently, supplementing the three existing production lines. This advancement emphasizes the company’s dedication to adopting the latest innovations in printing technology and meeting the modern requirements for full-color newspaper production. The new press offers exceptional print quality that surpasses the standards typically associated with newspaper printing. Its operations are largely automated and managed through a centralized control system, streamlining tasks from pre-press preparation to final output.

Unlike conventional horizontal designs, the press adopts a unique vertical, three-tier configuration. The first level accommodates paper reels, the second level houses printing and operational units, and the third level is dedicated to drying and cooling systems. This efficient layout not only optimizes floor space but also provides remarkable versatility in colour options, page layouts, and print quality, making it a transformative addition to the facility.