Retired Dubai residents Rosemary and George Mundackal’s fondest memory of Gulf News has nothing to do with the physical newspaper.
It actually has to do with the newspaper’s annual desert drive – the Gulf News Fun Drive.
Rosemary, 63, said: “Once, we went on the GN Fun Drive in a four-wheel drive but had to return in a helicopter, because we got stuck on the dunes! With Gulf News, we have had some very memorable adventures.”
The Indian nationals have been subscribers of the newspaper for 40 years, since 1978, and have seen its evolution through the decades, first hand.
Rosemary said: “When we first came to the UAE in 1976, we saw that Gulf News was practically like a booklet – quite thick. Now, it is more sleek and gives us the information we need. It has changed a lot.”
But while the newspaper’s design and format have evolved, George, 68, said his morning routine has remained the same for decades: “The first thing I read in the morning is the Bible, then it’s Gulf News. I read it from front-to-back and it takes about an hour. It’s been my regular routine for so many years.”
For both of them, the World section is vital with their morning cup of tea.
Rosemary said: “We are in a multicultural city, and live far away from our home country, so the international section keeps us informed on the latest news from India and the rest of the world. We should know what is happening around us.”
While global news is available on digital platforms, the Mundackals said nothing can replace their morning read. They find breaking news on television channels, but prefer the newspaper for its analyses and news features.
Another section that Rosemary thinks has an impact on people living in the UAE, is the Letters to the Editor section. She said: “People write to the newspaper about their issues, or things they experienced, and react to reports. I find it interesting. Also, Gulf News uses language that is simple and easy to understand, so it’s appealing to readers from all walks of life.”
On weekends, the couple enjoy reading Friday magazine. Rosemary said: “I especially like articles related to cooking, and cinema information from Gulf News tabloid!”
