'Me' time isn’t selfish. It’s the fuel to perform
You know you need a holiday when you start thanking the microwave. “Ding” goes your lunch, and you actually whisper “you too.” That’s not gratitude. That’s burnout in business casual. We...
Embracing our summer: A guide to 49 degrees
My friends from other parts of the world ask me, “How do you handle the heat?” I laugh, because the question is wrong. You don’t handle the Omani summer. You grow up with it. It’s in your...
THE SUMMER OF SCORCHING TAPS
At 7:03 am, Salma al Habsi turns the bathroom tap to the blue “C” — cold. She waits. The pipe rattles, and then steaming water gushes out. Curious, she places a kitchen thermometer beneath the...
Oman marks first day of Eid Al Adha today
MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman will join other Islamic countries to celebrate the first day of Eid Al Adha today, with His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik scheduled to perform the prayer at the Sultan...
Safe journey to all Haj pilgrims!
As the summer heat beats down on us, there are many individuals who are preparing to embark on a journey of a lifetime — the Haj pilgrimage. This year, amidst the scorching temperatures, these...
How to make the most of Eid holidays in summer
Eid Al Adha is coming and it’s bringing its usual mix of family, food and that unmistakable smell of grills firing up across the neighbourhood. This year it’s also bringing something else: Summer....
When the sun clocks in for overtime
Let’s be honest. When May rolls into the Sultanate of Oman, the sun doesn’t just rise, it clocks in for overtime. By 9 am, your car door handle is conducting science experiments. By noon, the...
His Majesty: The Sultan who shows up in person
Today, my column will taka a lighter look at how His Mahesty Sultan Haitham's governorate visits remind us leadership still comes with handshakes, not just headlines. There is a particular kind...
Eid Al Adha most likely on May 27
MUSCAT, APRIL 25 Eid Al Adha in Oman is expected to be celebrated on May 27 (Wednesday) according to astronomical calculations by Abdulwahab al Busaidy, a Board Member of the Oman Space and...
Saving to invest is the new way of life in Oman
There was a time when the surest sign of wealth in an Omani home was the size of the goat tied up before the festival. These days, walk into a living room of an Omani family and you’ll hear a...
War in the news, pause in spending
I caught myself last week. My thumb was hovering over the 'Buy Now' button for an espresso machine — the one that froths milk while playing jazz — when a news alert buzzed: another...
US and Iran ceasefire: A new era of peace
As I sit down to write this column, the news of a ceasefire between the US, Israel and Iran has brought a wave of relief to the world. The past few days have been tense, with fears of a full-blown war...
A heartfelt 'Thank You' to Royal Oman Police
As the recent rains brought much-needed relief to our lands, the Royal Oman Police (ROP) have been working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens and residents alike. Their...
Heroes in uniform: ROP personnel waste no time in saving Oman
Muscat, March 27 The Royal Oman Police (ROP) personnel have once again lived up to their reputation as guardians of the nation, showcasing exemplary dedication and bravery as they battled the heavy...
Why online reputation matters in crises
In today's digital age, online reputation is crucial for businesses, organisations and individuals alike. In Oman, where the government is actively promoting digital transformation, online...
Let’s keep laughing, keep crying, but keep demanding peace
This week, I dedicate this column to peace. I mean peace in the region. The recent bombings by the US, Israel, and Iran are no laughing matter or subject of debate. It's like a bad game of...
Protect your peace: Navigate news without losing your mind
The recent events unfolding in the Middle East have brought back constant news updates about conflicts, attacks, and tensions which can take a toll on our mental well-being. I have been there, feeling...
Honouring the unsung heroes: Celebrating Omani Teacher’s Day
This week, we are celebrating Omani Teacher's Day, a special occasion to recognise the tireless efforts and dedication of educators across the Sultanate of Oman. These unsung heroes work behind...
Eid Al Fitr is likely to be celebrated on March 20
MUSCAT: Eid Al Fitr in Oman is likely to be celebrated on March 20 (Friday) as per astronomical calculations. This joyous occasion marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadhan, and Omanis are...
Life years ago: Simpler times, stronger bonds, happy moments
Watching a family video of how life was 40 years ago hit me like a nostalgia bomb. Our parents lived without smartphones, social media, and instant gratification. They enjoyed outdoors, cracking jokes...