Who is Abbas Hilu from Midaq Alley and what is their importance?

Abbas Hilu is described as medium-height man, who is overweight and has yellowish, wavy hair. Abbas has always lived in—and loved—Midaq Alley. He is good-natured, gentle, peaceful, tolerant, kind, and conscientious about his religious duties and has worked as a barber's helper for ten years before opening his own shop five years ago. Abbas is satisfied with his lot and hates change.