Latest news with #Alawadi
Iraqi News
17 hours ago
- Politics
- Iraqi News
Iraq condemns escalating violence in Gaza
Baghdad ( — The Iraqi government has strongly denounced what it described as the continued crimes being carried out by the Israeli military in Gaza, calling on the international community to take decisive action in response to the growing humanitarian crisis. In a statement issued by government spokesman Basim Alawadi, Iraq reiterated its firm condemnation of the targeting of Palestinians and the systematic obstruction of humanitarian aid deliveries to the besieged enclave. 'More than seventy martyrs have fallen and hundreds have been wounded in the past 24 hours alone,' Alawadi said, referring to ongoing Israeli bombardments. 'Among these were disgraceful crimes committed against desperate civilians gathered at aid distribution points, seeking food for hundreds of thousands of families deprived of life's most basic needs.' Iraq holds the international community responsible for its failure to address the root causes of the conflict. The statement cited the global inaction on establishing a political solution based on the Palestinian people's right to their historic homeland as a key factor enabling continued aggression. Baghdad reiterated its support for a just and comprehensive solution grounded in international law and UN resolutions, particularly the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. It warned that any alternative path that ignores these principles will only prolong regional instability. In addition to its political stance, Iraq demanded the immediate and unhindered entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza and condemned the use of starvation as a method of warfare.
CairoScene
28-03-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
Emirati Filmmaker Maitha Alawadi to Speak at SXSW Panel in Texas
The panel will delve into the evolving landscape of Middle Eastern storytelling and its increasing influence on global cinema. Internationally acclaimed Emirati filmmaker Maitha Alawadi will participate in the panel discussion 'The Future of Storytelling: A Middle Eastern Series (Part 3)' at the prestigious SXSW festival in Austin, Texas, on March 10th, 2025. Known for her film Al Eid Eiden and her work across more than 20 short films, Alawadi—alongside Mohammed Harib (Lammtara Art Production) and Butheina Kazim (Cinema Akil)—will explore how Middle Eastern creators are reshaping global narratives by breaking stereotypes and offering fresh, authentic perspectives on the region's rich cultural heritage. The discussion will also examine how these innovative voices are contributing to a more inclusive and nuanced portrayal of the Middle East in the global entertainment industry.
Hi Dubai
17-02-2025
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Dubai's New Salik Toll Gates: Shifting Traffic Patterns and Early Impact on Commuters
The lasting effects of Dubai's expanded toll system, including new gates and dynamic pricing, could take up to a decade to fully manifest, according to Dr. Khaled Alawadi, an associate professor of Sustainable Urbanism at Khalifa University. Dr. Alawadi highlighted the connection between increased toll gates, improved air quality, and fewer accidents. However, he stressed that reducing car numbers on the roads would require significant investment in public transport infrastructure, a change that could take one to two decades to see results. Since the introduction of dynamic toll pricing by Salik earlier this year, local residents have already started to notice changes in traffic patterns. The system, which began on January 31, charges a Dh6 fee during peak hours (morning and evening) and Dh4 during off-peak hours on weekdays. The new pricing also offers free tolls between 1 am and 6 am, with Sundays seeing a flat Dh4 toll. For residents like Mohammed Iqbal, who works in Dubai Media City, the dynamic pricing has been beneficial. 'I pass through two Salik gates before 6 am, meaning I get free trips one way. I'm happy with the changes,' Iqbal shared. However, he noted an increase in early-morning traffic as people aim to avoid toll charges. Sanjana K.A. from Karama also noticed the changes in traffic flow. 'I was running late for a meeting in Dubai Marina and took the Safa and Barsha toll gates. The traffic was smoother, and I reached my destination ahead of time. But my Salik costs have increased,' she said. While some areas have seen improvements in traffic flow, others are experiencing more congestion. Ayesha Nawaz from Dubai Creek Harbor observed that commuters are bypassing the Business Bay bridge toll gate by taking shortcuts through her community, adding significant delays. 'Evening traffic is especially bad, with routes taking 20 minutes longer than before,' she said. Similarly, residents of Jumeirah experienced heavy traffic on the first day of the dynamic pricing. Muhammad Anshah, a Jumeirah resident, described it as a "nightmare," with many trying to avoid Salik by taking local roads. Fortunately, the situation normalized within a few days, although traffic remains heavier than it was prior to the pricing changes. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) expanded the toll system in November 2024, adding two new gates in Business Bay and Safa, bringing the total number of toll gates to 10. The goal is to encourage the use of public transport and redirect traffic to alternative routes such as Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road and Ras Al Khor Street. Dr. Alawadi praised Dubai's efforts to improve public transport connectivity, with almost 78% of the population serviced by public transit. However, he emphasized the need for further development to reduce reliance on private vehicles. He also pointed out that more research is required on travel behaviors, particularly the impact of "chain trips," where individuals make multiple stops throughout the day. Additionally, creating transit zones within walking distance (300-500 meters) of key areas is crucial for encouraging public transport use. As Dubai continues to evolve its toll and transport systems, it's clear that the city is striving for a balance between reducing traffic congestion and promoting sustainable transport solutions. However, the true impact will take time to materialize, requiring continued investment in both infrastructure and behavioral change. News Source: Khaleej Times
