A better future
The move for increased openness from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will be appreciated by people from all around the world ("Saudi Arabia to announce 'openness' at Spain forum", Gulf News, July 15). The country should lead other Muslim nations in conveying a message of compassion. Additionally, with the assistance of Muslims from across the globe, the country should work towards levelling the myths and misconceptions that people have about various related issues. The world needs to be a place of peace, belonging and kindness. Whether rich or poor, man or woman, all of us shape the future.
From Mr Tarek Syed
Sharjah
Allow old cars
I urge the authorities to reconsider permitting vehicles over 20 years old to be driven on UAE's roads. Many of these cars are well looked after, in good condition, and - as in my case - have been set up for the demands of off-road use. Replacing such vehicles involves substantial expenditure, even though the cars still meet the existing emission standards. Surely a case-by-case review could be introduced during the registration period to ensure that the cars meet environmental standards? This would be better than a blanket rule that does not consider the actual condition of every vehicle.
From Mr Peter Krygger
Dubai
Correct indication
The traffic safety campaign launched by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) should promote the use of left and right indicator lights when changing lanes ("Dubai Roads and Transport Authority launches road safety drive targeting trucks", Gulf News, July 16). When entering roundabouts, indicator lights help shorten waiting time and reduce accidents. Additionally, the RTA could begin this initiative in specific areas of Dubai to analyse the difference that proper use of indicator lights can make to traffic conditions.
From Mr C. F.
Dubai
Full name withheld by request
No etiquette
Tougher penalties should be in place for reckless drivers who love to tailgate ("Reckless driving shows drastic decrease", Gulf News, July 16). Additionally, there are many motorists on UAE's roads that step on the brakes at the very last moment and they must also be penalised. Since such drivers do not have proper road etiquette, they put others' lives at risk.
From A Reader
Abu Dhabi
Name withheld by request
Where's my bus?
Recently, I waited in Al Ghubaiba's bus station from 7.45am to 9.30am, but not a single bus came. Despite Shaikh Zayed Road's reputation as the business hub of Dubai, only two buses are scheduled to take this route from Al Ghubaiba. Both buses have very irregular timings, and drivers take a break of at least 10 to 15 minutes before setting off on their journey. Additionally, I do not understand why bus stations in Dubai do not have sufficient sheltered areas to protect passengers from the heat.
From Mr Glen Vitus
Dubai
Abused freedom
It is high time that the authorities charge the drunken passenger with a strict penalty, so as to set an example for others not to follow suit ("Bomb-scare drunk on Emirates flight made racist remarks, says witness", Gulf News, July 16). As a country where various nationalities are working for different firms, the UAE has more freedom than many other countries in the world. However, this freedom must not be abused.
From A Reader
Wellington, New Zealand
Name withheld by request
Save your vision
Gulf News's recent report on the importance of regular eye check-ups is welcome news for residents ("Regular eye check-ups 'vital for diabetics'," Gulf News, July 16). This step will certainly help prevent conditions such as blindness. If residents go for regular check-ups, those who are vulnerable to certain eye diseases would be able to still see the colours of life through early diagnosis and treatment. The system is expected to be a model for other countries where such conditions are widespread.
From Mr Mohammad Shamsheer
Dubai
More privacy
On my visits to the bank, I have observed that when a person goes to the teller to collect or withdraw cash, those waiting in queue behind the customer are able to see everything ("Duo drew victim out of car after deliberate crash in Dubai", Gulf News, July 16). Therefore, I suggest introducing more measures for the privacy of clients. Counters should have a partially closed area from both sides so that the customer and bank teller have complete privacy while the transaction is being made. Such measures could curb robberies or attempts at theft.
From Mr Varghese John
Sharjah
Morale boost
Gulf News recently reported that Oman plans to improve literacy levels in the country ("Oman plans to tackle illiteracy", Gulf News, July 15). However, Omani youngsters have already proven their mettle in education as well as in the employment sector. Private companies employ a large number of qualified Omanis and they are often encouraged to take up jobs in both the public and private sectors. Hundreds of Omanis graduate from universities every year and they are well received in the job market. The new initiative will further boost the morale of young Omanis.
From Mr Ramachandran Nair
Ruwi, Oman
Public can help
Despite the daily tragic accidents and deaths on the roads of Dubai and other emirates, we still see rash and negligent motorists driving at breakneck speed. There is a need for more police patrols, and I urge the police to acknowledge complaints from the public against reckless drivers. The public could provide police officials with details of such incidents so that they are immediately able to pull up offenders and warn them against repeating such violations. This would surely put reckless drivers on guard and hopefully make them more cautious motorists as well.
From Mr Godfrey Rasquinha
Umm Al Quwain
Don't drive slowly
We often hear people blaming accidents on those who speed unnecessarily ("Reckless driving shows drastic decrease", Gulf News, July 16). In reality, slow drivers are often at fault and are even more serious offenders than fast drivers. When motorists drive slowly on the fast lane of an empty four-lane highway, they are driving dangerously. It puts others at risk, as motorists will be forced to break the law in order to avoid an accident. I agree that we must try not to overtake other motorists, but the police should also consider fining slow drivers who use the fast lanes.
From A Reader
Abu Dhabi
Name withheld by request
Step forward
I offer the hit-and-run murder victim's family my sincere condolences ("Duo drew victim out of car after deliberate crash in Dubai", Gulf News, July 16). Additionally, I would like to congratulate Dubai Police for solving the case, and for encouraging the public to step forward and help. In times of crisis, people often have reservations on when it comes to, as they fear judicial inquiries and cross-questioning. But one must also keep in mind that situations like these could also happen to us. A few minutes of our time could mean justice to the victim's family and at least a remote feeling of assurance that others do care.
From Mr Anup Mathew
Dubai
