Real estate education
The Real Estate Regulatory Agency (Rera) has undertaken a positive role in standardising the procedures to facilitate safe and smooth property transactions ("All tenancy agreements to be ratified by Rera", Gulf News, January 22). It is time that it initiates steps in the direction of commencing training as well. The real estate market in Dubai has grown at such an unprecedented pace in recent times that it has attained the status of an industry. It has become imperative that proper training and education be imparted to the aspirants who wish to acquire knowledge and make a career out of it. The universities and colleges in and around Dubai should commence courses covering various aspects of the real estate industry.
From Mr Mohammad Sarosh
Dubai
Mesmerised
I have just come back to the UK after a visit to Dubai. To say the least, I'm absolutely mesmerised by the city. I had a wonderful time and the hospitality of the various residents was truly touching. The people of Dubai and the UAE are so kind and helpful. I recommend visiting the city to all tourists - a truly wonderful place.
From Mr Alan Evans
Gloucester, UK
Reduce congestion
The traffic situation in Dubai is at its worst, particularly during morning/evening rush hours. The police should take appropriate steps to reduce congestion during rush hours instead of expecting people to depend completely on road signals. Most drivers lose patience and block the junction, adding to the chaos.
From Mr N. K. Roy
Dubai
Temporary
Why on earth is the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) planning to demolish the original Garhoud Bridge? By European standards the bridge is fairly new. Instead, the RTA could have provided a dedicated route for taxis and buses or those going to the airport. The Garhoud Bridge's proposed demolition makes you wonder if it was only designed as a temporary measure.
From Mr Leslie John Welland
Dubai
Appeal for change
As a citizen of the world, I would like to make an appeal to all US citizens to make a difference in the forthcoming presidential elections. The various candidates who are campaigning have promised to bring in a change this time. Will the change be yet another foreign or financial policy? America's political history now has a chance to change, by electing its first-ever female president. Americans should put their trust in Hillary Clinton, at least once.
Besides her being a candidate with immense potential, one also needs to remember the grace with which she handled her husband Bill Clinton's infidelity. If given a chance she might bring in one of the most peaceful and glorious periods of presidency in the world.
From Ms Sucharitra Jena
Al Ain
Unsafe
Many of the pedestrian crossings in Abu Dhabi are invisible, as the paint has faded. Certain pedestrian crossings are not controlled by traffic lights on the main roads. These should have special orange lights, so drivers can see them from afar and be alert. Some crossings lead right into the middle of a fence. The only way to realise this is to drive halfway through. It is not safe at all. I request the authorities concerned to kindly look into the matter.
From Ms Sanya P.
Abu Dhabi
Full Name withheld by request
More space
I have noticed several accidents occurring at the U-turn that's right opposite the Indian social club in Kalba. It would be better to either close the U-turn or think of an alternative way to increase the space. This way a vehicle would be able to make a U-turn easily. I hope the authorities consider the matter of utmost importance and do the needful.
From Mr Rameez Ahmad
Fujairah
Consider revision
Unfortunately for the private sector employee, the salaries remain the same, despite the high rate of inflation ("Increased salary for staff begins in January", Gulf News, January 22). Private sector companies increase the price of their goods and services so that they don't miss out on earning huge profits. However, the employees - an essential asset to the company- are forgotten. It is a kind of exploitation by the private sector companies as the employees are bound by a contract as well as personal priorities. Sometimes it becomes difficult to lead even a hand-to-mouth existence. It would be great if the authorities concerned look into this matter and take appropriate measures.
From Mr Ashok Jain
Dubai
Bad taxi system
Why is the taxi system so bad in Sharjah? I live in Al Nahda and work at the Dubai Airport Free Zone Authority (DAFZA). Not a single taxi is ready to take anyone from the Al Nahda area. I know this for a fact because I see people like me waiting for hours at a stretch in order to catch a taxi. At times, as many as 50 empty taxis will drive by but none stop. To top it all, I can't get a car pool facility from Al Nahda to DAFZA, as the distance is too short. Is there no solution for people living in this area?
From Ms Umme Aaiman
Sharjah
High targets
It is very easy for passengers to blame taxi drivers and ignore the tough situation faced by them. Taxi drivers are under tremendous pressure to meet high targets set by the taxi companies. The commission earned from these targets is their actual source of income. Failure to do so might even result in their termination. This is the main reason why taxi drivers lend services only to those passengers who prefer to travel long distances. The chances of achieving targets are high with long distance trips and also due to less traffic. I request the authorities concerned to look into this matter as soon as possible. This way at least the drivers can have a decent living and passengers a hassle-free trip.
From Mr Rehaan Aslam
Sharjah
Mere expression
The Palestinians are the real heroes in today's political drama. By depriving the Palestinians of basic necessities the Israelis have once again proven to the world that no one can be crueller than them. The recent images of little children asking for milk should have shaken the entire world. Why can't the world stand in solidarity against the biggest terrorist attacking Palestine? In today's world human rights are merely words used to garner sympathy.
From Ms Reshma M.
Dubai
