The media and cultural circles in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia were shocked by the news of the death of the veteran writer and journalist Abdullah Al-Qubai’ , who passed away in the British capital, London, after a struggle with illness, bringing to a close a full professional journey that extended for about 50 years, which he dedicated to serving the word and diligent journalistic work.
A career among the most prestigious Saudi newspapers
The late Abdullah Al-Qubai’i was one of the most prominent figures who shaped the Saudi journalistic landscape over the past five decades. His career was not merely a passing job, but a journey of passion that took him through the corridors of major media institutions that made history in the Kingdom. He left a clear mark on the Okaz newspaper, contributed to the development of editorial work at Al-Madina newspaper, in addition to his important professional stints at the international Asharq Al-Awsat newspaper and the Saudi newspaper Al-Watan.
Al-Qubai’ was distinguished by his sober style and his ability to capture different angles of events, which made him a mobile journalistic school from which many young journalists who worked with him or were mentored by him in the various newsrooms drew.
A cultural legacy that transcends daily news
The deceased was not content with his role as a journalist pursuing daily news; he was also a man of letters and intellect, enriching the Arabic library with publications that documented his vision and experience. Among his most prominent works, which resonated widely, are "Space Mischief" and "My Letters ." These works reflected another facet of his personality, blending constructive criticism, profound analysis, and the ability to foresee the future of media amidst rapid changes.
Witness to the transformations of Saudi media
The significance of Abdullah Al-Qubai’s experience lies in his being a living witness to the major transformations that Saudi and Arab media have undergone. He lived through the golden age of print journalism and experienced the challenges of transitioning to the digital age, remaining steadfast in his professionalism and principles throughout these periods. He is regarded in media circles as one of the "symbols of the profession" who contributed to establishing the foundations of institutional journalism in the Kingdom, playing an active role in developing the editorial and administrative departments of the institutions where he worked.
Goodbye in the capital of fog
The passing of Al-Qubai’ in London marked the end of a distinguished chapter in the history of Saudi journalism, leaving behind a significant professional legacy and a sterling reputation among his colleagues and readers. Various media outlets mourned his loss, recalling his virtues, his refined character, and his unwavering dedication to his work until his final days, ensuring his name remains etched in the annals of Saudi journalism as one of its most loyal figures.
