Monday 24 / November / 2025
Last week, His Excellency Mohamed Al Zubair was honoured by the Kuwait International Book Fair 2025 in recognition of the enduring mark he continues to make on Arab culture.
While many know him as His Majesty’s Advisor for Economic Planning or as the founder of the acclaimed Bait Al Zubair cultural museum, I knew him long before the titles—long before the accolades—when he was simply the man whose passions, curiosity, and generosity left an impression on everyone around him.
The photographer’s red light
My first memory of him dates back to when I was just six years old. I was amazed to discover that he had his own darkroom—a sanctuary bathed in the iconic red light, a concept almost lost in our era of instant digital photography. Even then, the camera was never far from his side.
Over the years, his passion never waned. Despite a demanding schedule, travelling extensively within Oman and around the world, he always made time for photography.
I would often think, “How does such a busy man dedicate so much time to a hobby?”
That balance—between public service at the highest level and personal devotion to a craft—is what truly defines him.
The adventurer and innovator
H.E. Al Zubair is endlessly curious and adventurous. He has been always an early adopter, often acquiring the latest gadgets the moment they were launched.
His curiosity extended beyond technology—he thrives on testing boundaries. I vividly remember him offering me the chance to join a four-week overland journey from Singapore to China, a trip so ambitious it required shipping his car internationally just to begin driving.
Even more remarkable is his generosity. He mentors entrepreneurs and individuals with wisdom that transcends economic policy, sharing insights with a genuine desire to guide and inspire.
A legacy of preservation
His enduring public legacy is perhaps most visible in his commitment to heritage. He founded Bait Al Zubair to preserve and share the rich history of Oman and his family’s heritage. For over 70 years, he has devoted his life to this mission—a devotion now rightly celebrated by the Kuwait International Book Fair.
Congratulations, dear Uncle.
You have not only earned this honour, but you continue to inspire those of us fortunate enough to witness the man behind the titles.
Your story is far bigger than any accolade—and yet, it is the accolades that now follow a life so richly lived.
* The author is the Chairman of Muscat Media Group
