Asharq Al-Awsat Wins Arab Journalism Award for Investigative Reporting
The recognition was awarded for journalist Sameh Ellaboody's powerful investigative report, 'The Final Voyage of the Infamous 'Salt' Ship', which examined the tragic sinking of a deteriorating cargo vessel that claimed the lives of 14 sailors, leaving only one survivor.
The report offered a gripping and meticulously detailed account of the disaster, shedding light on the shadowy trade of 'death boats'. It drew on exclusive interviews, most notably with the lone survivor Ahmed Barakat, as well as audio recordings and images capturing the final moments of the doomed voyage.
The award reflects Asharq Al-Awsat's commitment to high-impact journalism and its role as a leading voice in Arab media, delivering bold and professional coverage of pressing regional issues.
The summit also honored Fakhri Karim, Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of Iraq's Al-Mada Foundation, with the Media Personality of the Year Award for his decades-long contributions to Arab journalism.
He received the award from Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the UAE National Olympic Committee.
Meanwhile, Asharq Documentary received the Best Documentary Award for its film 'Under the Rubble,' which explores the human stories that emerged from the destruction in Gaza. The award was presented by Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, to channel Director General Mohamed Al Youssi.
The film was praised for its emotional depth and unflinching portrayal of life during conflict. 'This recognition highlights the power of documentary storytelling,' Al Youssi said. 'We dedicate it to all who lived through the devastation and to those who helped share their voices amid the silence.'
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