Five new calligraphic installations are now in place at the Etihad Museum in Dubai. They are by artist Wissam Shawkat, an artist, master calligrapher and graphic designer who has rewritten the opening quotes of the UAE Constitution in bronze. Bringing the Founding Fathers‚ words and devotion to life, and displaying the solid foundations of the nation for all to see, the installation reads:
“We, [the Rulers of the Emirates of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al Qawain, Ras al Khaimah and Fujairah] it is our desire and the desire of the people of our Emirates to establish a union between these Emirates, to promote a better life, more enduring stability and a higher international status for the Emirates and their people.”
The installation reflects the purpose of the museum, which is to enrich the public’s understanding of the 1971 Agreement, tell the story of the birth of the UAE, and preserve and celebrate Emirati heritage. The installations invite visitors to share in the nation’s rich history and also strengthen pride in the Arabic language.
Shawkat is an important artist as he has the ability to cherish and maintain all the traditions and rules of Arabic calligraphy yet bring it into the modern era.
Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD)
What is THAAD?
It is considered to be the US' most superior missile defence system.
Production:
It was first created in 2008.
Speed:
THAAD missiles can travel at over Mach 8, so fast that it is hypersonic.
Abilities:
THAAD is designed to take out projectiles, namely ballistic missiles, as they are on their downward trajectory towards their target, otherwise known as the "terminal phase".
Purpose:
To protect high-value strategic sites, such as airfields or population centres.
Range:
THAAD can target projectiles both inside and outside of the Earth's atmosphere, at an altitude of 93 miles above the Earth's surface.
Creators:
Lockheed Martin was originally granted the contract to develop the system in 1992. Defence company Raytheon sub-contracts to develop other major parts of the system, such as ground-based radar.
UAE and THAAD:
In 2011, the UAE became the first country outside of the US to buy two THAAD missile defence systems. It then deployed them in 2016, becoming the first Gulf country to do so.
How to protect yourself when air quality drops
Install an air filter in your home.
Close your windows and turn on the AC.
Shower or bath after being outside.
Wear a face mask.
Stay indoors when conditions are particularly poor.
If driving, turn your engine off when stationary.
