Latest news with #Bassam
CairoScene
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
Zawya Cinema Screens Acclaimed Documentary ‘Abu Zaabal 89'
A standout at the Cairo Int'l Film Festival, 'Abu Zaabal 89' won three awards and became a rallying point for Egypt's indie film scene. May 07, 2025 Director Bassam Mortada's documentary 'Abu Zaabal 89' is set to screen at Zawya Cinema starting May 7th as part of Cairo Cinema Days, a special program showcasing standout Arab films that have made an impact on the international festival circuit. The film had its world premiere at the 2024 International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA) in the Luminous section, which showcases films that 'tell human stories with a strong visual style'. A standout at the 2024 Cairo International Film Festival, 'Abu Zaabal 89' won three awards and quickly became a rallying point for Egypt's independent film scene. Its four sold-out screenings, two of which were added due to overwhelming demand, sparked a sense of collective pride among local filmmakers. The film is both an intimate memoir and a historical reckoning. Mortada, the son of Egyptian socialist activist Mahmoud Mortada, revisits the trauma of 1989, when his father was incarcerated during the Steel and Iron Company strike. Bassam, still a teenager at the time, accompanied his mother, Fardous, to visit his father in Abu Zaabal prison; a memory that became etched into their family's history. Decades later, 'Abu Zaabal 89' reconstructs this moment, not just as a personal reflection but as a wider narrative about resistance, memory, and political legacy. Through candid conversations with his parents and archival footage, Mortada weaves a multilayered story of family, repression, and resilience. The film also highlights the experiences of Bassam's friends, whose families were similarly impacted by the same case.
Asharq Al-Awsat
23-04-2025
- Politics
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Israeli Intelligence, Financial Incentives Pressure Gaza Residents to Leave the Enclave
Israel's approach to the issue of displacement in Gaza remains unclear as it resorts to bombing and fear on the one hand, and promises and incentives on the other. Israel is using both force and persuasion: striking areas to push people to flee, while at the same time hinting at 'voluntary' departure through softer, indirect messages. Caught between fear and false hope, residents of Gaza face growing confusion and chaos over what many see as Israel's attempt to push them out through a mix of pressure and persuasion. For nearly 19 months, relentless bombardment and bloodshed have left Gazans desperate for safety and stability — a vulnerability Israel appears to be exploiting through varied strategies aimed at forcing displacement. The picture grew even murkier in recent days, as many residents received text messages from Israeli phone numbers urging them to contact intelligence officers via WhatsApp to coordinate their departure. Some messages proposed specific times to meet near the Netzarim Corridor, a site often used for Israeli military operations inside Gaza. Several Gaza residents reported receiving calls from Israeli lawyers, urging them to sign powers of attorney to facilitate their displacement from the enclave. Shattered dreams One such individual, a man in his late 30s, shared that he received a call last Thursday from a law firm in Tel Aviv. The firm offered him the chance to sign documents to secure papers enabling his travel out of Gaza. The offer extended beyond paperwork. The lawyer's office assured him he would receive $5,000 before being arranged for travel through Ramon Airport to a European country, or potentially to Indonesia or Malaysia. The man, who spoke to Asharq Al-Awsat on condition of anonymity, explained that he had previously visited a European country, hoping to stay and obtain residency. However, that attempt failed, and he returned to Gaza. A screenshot of a phone message Hamas says is from Israeli intelligence to a resident of Gaza. (Asharq Al-Awsat) This might have been one of the reasons he was targeted again, as the firm seemed to want to rekindle a long-lost hope. After declining the offer, he began receiving multiple messages on his phone urging him to contact an Israeli intelligence officer via WhatsApp to expedite his travel arrangements. As Israel's efforts to displace Gazans intensify, more residents are coming forward with stories of offers and coercion aimed at convincing them to leave the region. An academic from Gaza, who asked to be identified by a false name, Bassam, recently received a notification inviting him to prepare for departure alongside fellow researchers and artists and their families. The invitation came as part of a program backed by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, designed to attract and support scholars and professionals by facilitating their integration into higher education, research institutions, and cultural organizations in France. Bassem explained that they were instructed to gather at a designated location in Gaza before being transported by land to the Kerem Shalom crossing and then flown to Paris via Ramon Airport. He shared that he would leave with his wife and their four children, hoping the opportunity would allow them to build a new future that not only benefits their academic prospects, but also contributes to the rebuilding efforts in Gaza. Among the dual nationals contacted by Asharq Al-Awsat, Fares, also using a fake name, described how he traveled to a European country after securing approval from the embassy of the nation he holds citizenship with. He signed documents confirming his voluntary departure from Gaza, having applied for the move nearly a year earlier. He left Gaza with his family just recently. Deceptive messages Amid the uncertainty, Gaza's Ministry of Interior and National Security issued a warning on Tuesday about what it called 'campaigns to deceive citizens' into leaving their homeland. In a statement posted on its official Facebook page, the ministry condemned the ongoing psychological pressure and misleading messages reaching residents' phones. These messages, often accompanied by phone calls, urge people to meet with Israeli intelligence agents under the pretense of allowing them to travel abroad. The ministry strongly advised citizens to ignore any such messages or calls, stressing the potential dangers posed by these deceptive tactics. It also called on the international community to exert pressure on Israel to halt its 'malicious campaigns' targeting Palestinians, which says constitutes a violation of international law and amounts to forced displacement. 'What the occupation failed to achieve after months of genocide and aggression against our people, it will not accomplish through deception and manipulation,' the ministry said in a statement. The ministry, which is affiliated with Hamas, also warned it would take legal action against anyone found cooperating with the misleading messages. Israel's persistent displacement efforts The deceptive messages serve as a reminder of Israel's ongoing, relentless attempts to force the displacement of Gaza's population. These efforts have ranged from enforcing a policy of 'scorched earth' to establishing an administration aimed at facilitating voluntary migration, and even releasing media reports suggesting that foreign countries might accept Gaza migrants. These reports have been widely denied by the countries involved. Last month, Egypt rejected claims circulated by Israeli media that it had agreed to temporarily house half a million Gaza residents in a designated city in northern Sinai as part of a reconstruction plan for the enclave. The Egyptian State Information Service issued a statement firmly rejecting 'any attempt to forcibly or voluntarily displace Palestinian brothers from Gaza, particularly to Egypt,' emphasizing that such a move would constitute a liquidation of the Palestinian cause and pose a direct threat to Egypt's national security. US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meet at the White House on February 4, 2025. (AFP) In February, US President Donald Trump proposed, during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, a plan to 'relocate Palestinians' from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan, while the US would take control of the territory and transform it into the 'Riviera of the Middle East.' This proposal was met with widespread Arab and international condemnation, particularly from Egypt and Jordan. In response to the US proposal, Egypt developed a reconstruction plan for Gaza, which was approved during the Arab League's Emergency Summit on Palestine in Cairo on March 4. Meanwhile, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto announced in April that his country was prepared to temporarily host Palestinians affected by the conflict in Gaza, particularly those wounded or traumatized, as well as orphans. However, he emphasized that this move would be 'temporary' until conditions in Gaza improved and safe return was possible. Indonesia reaffirmed its support for a two-state solution. In March, Israel revealed plans to set up an office for 'voluntary migration,' aimed at facilitating the departure of Gaza residents to third countries. Sick and injured, not migrants According to Gaza's government agencies, the few individuals who have recently left the territory are primarily patients and wounded individuals, not migrants, who have completed the necessary travel procedures to receive treatment abroad. In the past four days, several families with injured individuals, patients, and dual nationals have left Gaza. These groups gathered in Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis before traveling through the Kerem Shalom crossing into Jordan or Ramon Airport, from where they flew to various destinations. No sources have confirmed the claims that these individuals were forced to sign papers agreeing not to return or to be removed from the civil registry. Wasem Attiya pushes his father, Mohamed, 54, in a wheelchair as they head to Shifa hospital in Gaza City for a dialysis session, Monday, April 14, 2025. (AP) Europe tightens migration policies Palestinians who left Gaza during or prior to the war have described how many European countries had already imposed stricter immigration policies even before October 7, 2023, Hamas attack. With the rise of the far-right in several European countries, immigration has become one of the most contentious issues, with some calls to expel Palestinians and Arabs from these countries. Others have even rejected offers to take in patients or injured individuals from Gaza. Independent sources and expatriates in Europe confirmed that the majority of those allowed to travel from Gaza are primarily patients and the injured, with coordination between Israel and the World Health Organization. Some European nations had allowed limited family reunification for Gaza residents already living in Europe, though this has almost entirely stopped, the sources told Asharq Al-Awsat. Currently, those permitted to travel are individuals holding foreign nationalities, with a small number of students allowed to go to Ireland. However, severe restrictions make it nearly impossible for Palestinians to obtain official visas to enter Europe. Amidst the ongoing destruction and displacement, the residents of Gaza continue to suffer.
Syyaha
17-04-2025
- Business
- Syyaha
dusitD2 Kenz Hotel and Dusit Princess Residences Dubai Marina Partner with the Dubai Autism Center to Champion Awareness and Inclusivity
Grounded in the belief that true hospitality embraces everyone, this collaboration sets in motion a long-term initiative designed to inspire, educate, and empower individuals with autism in meaningful ways Dubai, UAE – April 17, 2025 – dusitD2 Kenz Hotel and Dusit Princess Residences Dubai Marina are honored to announce a purposeful partnership with the Dubai Autism Center, reinforcing their shared commitment to building a more inclusive and compassionate community. Under the theme 'Building a Brighter Future: Giving Back and Rising Together,' this collaboration marks the beginning of a dedicated, long-term journey—one already filled with exciting monthly activities and plans, rooted in the belief that inclusion and support must be continuous, not momentary. 'We have always recognized that our people are our greatest resource,' said Area General Manager Bassam Zakaria. 'That's why we've consistently equipped our teams with the tools for personal and professional well-being through holistic wellness seminars, engaging sessions, and awareness programs.' For Bassam, true hospitality transcends the walls of their hotels. 'It is our responsibility to uplift not only those who work with us but also the communities around us. This partnership, therefore, is more than just a program—it's a heartfelt commitment that fills us with pride and purpose,' he added. In observance of World Autism Month this April, the team is proud to launch an initiative that celebrates neurodiversity, fosters understanding, and stands in solidarity with individuals and families on the spectrum. THE START OF SOMETHING MEANINGFUL The first activity of this initiative reflects the essence of the partnership. Area General Manager Bassam Zakaria, along with teams from both properties, visited the Dubai Autism Center last April 14th to personally deliver items chosen from the children's wish list. These items, gathered both individually and through collective department efforts, demonstrate that when kindness is shared, its impact multiplies. Taking this initiative even further, the hotels kicked off the collaboration with a special activity on April 16th, featuring a series of engaging experiences designed to foster hands-on learning and inspire young minds. Children had the opportunity to learn the art of organizing a room and gain skills in creating inviting, thoughtful spaces, all under the guidance of the Housekeeping team. This was followed by an interactive cooking session with the Food and Beverage & Culinary team, where children were encouraged to experiment, acquire essential kitchen skills, and enjoy the process of creating something with their own hands—all in an atmosphere filled with support and joy. But this is just the beginning. With a deep and ongoing commitment to the cause, dusitD2 Kenz Hotel and Dusit Princess Residences Dubai Marina will continue to host events and activities throughout the year—each one thoughtfully crafted to celebrate neurodiversity and create a space where individuals living with autism feel seen, heard, and, most importantly, supported. THE HEART OF HOSPITALITY 'As hoteliers, our goal is to make every guest feel at home. This partnership reaffirms our purpose and opens new ways to connect with the community,' said Bassam. 'For me, being part of society goes far beyond business; it's about responsibility. It's about making a conscious and consistent effort to give back to the community whenever an opportunity arises. I believe this means recognizing the needs of others—not just through service, but by contributing to the well-being of those around us. When we can make a difference, no matter how small, we must act with urgency and compassion. Through our collaboration with the Dubai Autism Center, we aim to highlight the importance of fostering an environment where everyone feels truly welcomed through meaningful connection and the celebration of individuality.' This initiative also reflects the hotels' alignment with the UAE's National Autism Policy, launched in 2021, which advocates for accessible services and unified standards to better support individuals with autism and their families. 'As members of the community, we're committed to making that vision a reality,' he remarked. 'It's our honor and privilege to help shape a world where every individual is welcomed—not just as a guest, but as themselves. True to the spirit of Dusit's Tree of Life, this initiative reinforces our promise to le ad with heart and create space for others to thrive. It's a vital part of our ongoing journey toward sustainable hospitality,' the Area General Manager affirmed.
Zawya
17-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
DusitD2 Kenz Hotel and Dusit Princess Residences Dubai Marina partner with the Dubai Autism Center
Grounded in the belief that true hospitality embraces everyone, this collaboration sets in motion a long-term initiative designed to inspire, educate, and empower individuals with autism in meaningful ways Dubai, UAE – dusitD2 Kenz Hotel and Dusit Princess Residences Dubai Marina are honored to announce a purposeful partnership with the Dubai Autism Center, reinforcing their shared commitment to building a more inclusive and compassionate community. Under the theme ' Building a Brighter Future: Giving Back and Rising Together,' this collaboration marks the beginning of a dedicated, long-term journey—one already filled with exciting monthly activities and plans, rooted in the belief that inclusion and support must be continuous, not momentary. 'We have always recognized that our people are our greatest resource,' said Area General Manager Bassam Zakaria. 'That's why we've consistently equipped our teams with the tools for personal and professional well-being through holistic wellness seminars, engaging sessions, and awareness programs.' For Bassam, true hospitality transcends the walls of their hotels. 'It is our responsibility to uplift not only those who work with us but also the communities around us. This partnership, therefore, is more than just a program—it's a heartfelt commitment that fills us with pride and purpose,' he added. In observance of World Autism Month this April, the team is proud to launch an initiative that celebrates neurodiversity, fosters understanding, and stands in solidarity with individuals and families on the spectrum. THE START OF SOMETHING MEANINGFUL The first activity of this initiative reflects the essence of the partnership. Area General Manager Bassam Zakaria, along with teams from both properties, visited the Dubai Autism Center last April 14th to personally deliver items chosen from the children's wish list. These items, gathered both individually and through collective department efforts, demonstrate that when kindness is shared, its impact multiplies. Taking this initiative even further, the hotels kicked off the collaboration with a special activity on April 16th, featuring a series of engaging experiences designed to foster hands-on learning and inspire young minds. Children had the opportunity to learn the art of organizing a room and gain skills in creating inviting, thoughtful spaces, all under the guidance of the Housekeeping team. Having fun with towel art This was followed by an interactive cooking session with the Food and Beverage & Culinary team, where children were encouraged to experiment, acquire essential kitchen skills, and enjoy the process of creating something with their own hands—all in an atmosphere filled with support and joy. Engaging activity by creating art with pancakes But this is just the beginning. With a deep and ongoing commitment to the cause, dusitD2 Kenz Hotel and Dusit Princess Residences Dubai Marina will continue to host events and activities throughout the year—each one thoughtfully crafted to celebrate neurodiversity and create a space where individuals living with autism feel seen, heard, and, most importantly, supported. THE HEART OF HOSPITALITY 'As hoteliers, our goal is to make every guest feel at home. This partnership reaffirms our purpose and opens new ways to connect with the community,' said Bassam. 'For me, being part of society goes far beyond business; it's about responsibility. It's about making a conscious and consistent effort to give back to the community whenever an opportunity arises. I believe this means recognizing the needs of others—not just through service, but by contributing to the well-being of those around us. When we can make a difference, no matter how small, we must act with urgency and compassion. Through our collaboration with the Dubai Autism Center, we aim to highlight the importance of fostering an environment where everyone feels truly welcomed through meaningful connection and the celebration of individuality.' This initiative also reflects the hotels' alignment with the UAE's National Autism Policy, launched in 2021, which advocates for accessible services and unified standards to better support individuals with autism and their families. 'As members of the community, we're committed to making that vision a reality,' he remarked. 'It's our honor and privilege to help shape a world where every individual is welcomed—not just as a guest, but as themselves. True to the spirit of Dusit's Tree of Life, this initiative reinforces our promise to le ad with heart and create space for others to thrive. It's a vital part of our ongoing journey toward sustainable hospitality,' the Area General Manager affirmed. For media inquiries, partnership opportunities, or to learn more about upcoming initiatives, please contact: Carissa Gomez Area Asst. Marketing Manager dusitD2 Kenz Hotel & Dusit Princess Residences – Dubai Marina
Khaleej Times
13-02-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: After 14-year wait, couple reclaims over Dh265,000 in off-plan property case
After a 14-year wait, a couple finally recovered the Dh266,352 downpayment fees they paid for a house that was not built on time in Dubai. Back in 2008, Dr Bassam Mahboub and his wife bought an off-plan house in an Al Qudra residential compound's 'cluster C' from Remraam developer. Bassam paid instalments for a year and was receiving photos from the developer featuring the building process, when everything came to a halt. After paying a few instalments, he visited the site and realised that no progress had been made with his cluster. "They had not even put the foundation yet. It seems they were sending me photos from clusters A and B,' he explained. Realising the lack of progress, Dr Mahboub stopped paying the remaining instalments. Shortly after, the developer told him that he lost both the downpayments and the house for failing to meet the instalments' deadlines. 'They claimed that they issued a notice that I have lost both the house and the paid amounts, but I neither received it nor signed it. At the time I was busy with special circumstances, and when I followed up with them two years later, they said I lost everything.' 'Over a decade later, I met lawyer Ali Al Abbadi and told him my story. He said we can file a lawsuit and claim the money back because the buyer has the right to freeze payments if the seller did not fulfil his end of the contract.' The lawsuit filed in 2021 passed through five stages of litigation in Dubai Courts, starting with the first instance court ruling in favour of Dr Bassam. The other party referred the ruling to the appeals court to cancel the ruling. When their request was denied, they further appealed the verdict at the cassation court, who bounced it back to appeals for lacking proof that the company did not keep their end of the deal. Further expert reports led the appeals court to rule in favour of Dr Bassam once again, driving the company to file a second final appeal at the court of cassation. The supreme court's final verdict, which Khaleej Times received a copy of, said the company had no right to confiscate the property and instalments, even if the buyer had received a notification. A judicial expert report showed that the company breached their end of the contract, as they were supposed to hand the house to the buyer in June 2010. However, up until May 2011, the project was only 42.8 per cent ready, which proves that they did not fulfil their end of the deal. The cassation court upheld the lower court's ruling to return the instalment money to the plaintiff. The property was finally completed in May 2023. The amounts were paid back to Dr Bassam through the executive court, shortly after. 'Our firm was following up the execution process every day,' said Al Abbadi, adding: 'The company paid out of the fear that we would issue a freezing request on their assets if they don't pay.'
