Expo will prove UAE committed to excellence
The opinion article UAE expo can connect minds for a better future (June 11) is clear enough to tell the whole world that the UAE is committed to excellence in every sphere.
Expo 2020 will offer an opportunity to showcase the country's technological achievements. It's good to know that through this exhibition, the UAE wants to herald the message of peace, especially at a time when this part of the world is seeing so little peace.
The expo will emphasise that the UAE is committed to peace in the Middle East and that it respects the region's traditions and culture.
It is indeed a challenge to maintain tradition while striving to achieve the advantages that the future promises.
Ramachandran Nair, Oman
Time to be strict with bad drivers
I refer to the news article Take the keys away from the UAE's worst drivers (June 7).
I wonder if anyone takes the issue of bad driving seriously. As long as culture of bad driving is not stigmatised and bad drivers are not penalised, people will continue to die. Enforce the speed limit for each lane by having both visible and unmarked patrol vehicles. How can people drive at high speed in slow lanes?
Abdulkhaliq, Abu Dhabi
Why are the police powerless to stop the mayhem on the road?
Over the past two years, I've had one speeding fine and in the last 20 years one accident in the UAE, and I know a lot of this is to do with having been properly trained from the onset and having good self discipline and respect for others.
If drivers don't possess these traits, then they should be removed from the road. For some people, of various nationalities, fines don't mean anything, so let's step it up.
David Pryce, Abu Dhabi
Jet skiers pose serious danger
I am commenting on the article Rising tide of protest over Palm Jumeirah jet skiers in Dubai (June 6).
I live by Marina Walk, and I know that an accident is waiting to happen as jet skiers disregard the 4-knot speed limit. They go at full speed along the marina every evening and the noise their motorcraft make is terrible.
These jet skiers are always on the wrong side of Dubai Marina as they seem to want to splash water on the onlookers.
I am sure there is going to be a fatality one day as these jet skis dodge small boats, water taxis, water buses and yachts.
Also, there are so many blind spots where one needs to reduce speed.
Alan Godfrey, Dubai
Britons are losing faith in politicians
I refer to the article UK denies it illegally spied on its own citizens (June 11).
Such is the current general level of distrust in UK politicians that few of the voting public put any faith in the honesty of British politicians.
Democracy has suffered in the name of political correctness and party politicking.
Name withheld by request
Ease visa process to boost tourism
I am writing with reference to the news article Wanted: more Emiratis to visit Italy (June 6).
I am an Indian expatriate. I have both US and UK visas that are valid for 10 years.
To promote tourism, all Schengen countries should issue long-term visas. Currently, the process to obtain Schengen visas is time consuming.
Joseph, Dubai
University reflects UAE's progress
I am responding to the news article Sheikh Mohammed and Crown Princes attend UAE University graduation (June 6).
UAE University enjoys a global reputation and its image is growing.
The university regularly finds mention on reputable academic websites.
The performance of the university and its staff as shown on those sites is truly remarkable.
It's a reflection of the UAE's academic achievements.
Eman Zabalawi, Al Ain
