Cultural Transformations

Chapter 6Harib Al KitaniCEO, Oman LNG

The key to unlocking your massive potential is making the decision to be vulnerable.

—John Mattone

HARIB AL KITANI WAS BORN in 1962 on the fabled, uncommonly beautiful islands of Zanzibar. An archipelago off the coast of East Africa, Zanzibar is a dichotomy of winding lanes and ornate architecture and wide, white beaches set off from clear blue sea, the shoreline a near-perfect reflection of the azure sky dotted with pure white cumulus clouds. At the time the Al Kitanis were starting their family, Zanzibar was a colony of Oman, so there were many Omanis who made a life there—some remain today. This rich history has forged strong cultural and economic relationships, relationships that have been forged over centuries.

In January 1964, when a bloody revolution to remove the Omani rule from Zanzibar commenced, Omanis fled in droves to locations far and wide. But the Al Kitanis, a family of intense pride and ethical fortitude, held firm. Harib's parents had a steadfast commitment to education, and for mostly this reason they were determined to stay put. As a result, young Harib had what can only be characterized as a tough upbringing amidst the post-colonial period. Stripped of everything they owned, the family struggled in a myriad of ways.

In these post-revolutionary wilds, young Harib learned quickly that you have to be extremely tough and work incredibly hard to survive. Looking back today, Harib gives thanks to God that his parents upheld ...