With regard to your editorial, Time to revise the Gulf's no-tax image? (February 24), I think a total review of the UAE's fiscal policy towards its expatriate workforce would be needed.
Most of us came here because the money is better than where we are from. If our disposable income here affects our standard of living or lessens our ability to save money compared to being at home, that will definitely have an impact on decisions about whether to stay here, return home or move to other places with favourable tax policies.
So, for example, if the tax is added but rent and utility costs were comparable to other economies (instead of effectively acting as pay-as-you-use taxes, as is the case now), then it will be fairer.
But imposing income tax on top of the high cost of living would definitely deter expatriates from favouring the Middle East as a place to work.
Paul Glover, Dubai
Individual income tax would not be a good idea. The immediate effect would be to reduce the region’s competitiveness in attracting workers. However, the social and political implications could be far greater for the growing nation.
The current strategy of indirect taxation and minimal fees works better (although it could be optimised) and, as they say, if it is not broken then do not try to fix it.
Perhaps individual income tax should wait until the economy is much more diversified and the local population has increased significantly.
Name withheld by request
A more important question is whether expats would all go home if council tax became housing fee, road tax was called Salik, and we had to pay visa, school, and health insurance fees instead of income tax.
I’m still better off here, but only just. Income tax would tip the balance between being able to make ends meet here and going home.
Adam Pitt, Dubai
Introducing a tax would increase the cost of doing business. Usually when one pays more, one expects improved levels of customer service.
John Lewis, Dubai
Should we prosecute or ignore trolls?
One does not have to be Emirati to be offended by the nasty and outrageous comments reported in your news article (UAE police to investigate 'outrageous' Instagram post, February 24).
As a woman, I feel that the unflattering comments about Emirati women and the UAE are highly humiliating. The individual behind this post, regardless of their gender or nationality, should be ashamed of having such a lowly mentality that generalises and degrades women, who deserve the utmost respect.
The Instagram account holder needs to be brought to justice for saying something so disrespectful. I’m deeply saddened and disgusted by this.
Fatima Suhail, Sharjah
I agree that these comments are outrageous, but he or she just seems to be an internet troll.
These trolls crave attention, so maybe we should just ignore these comments. Even if this user gets punished, there will be countless others seeking attention. As the proverb used in India and Pakistan goes, if you try to fight dirt, your clothes will get stained.
Wise Ahmad Ghaznavid, Sharjah
Kudos for trying to protect Emirati culture and standing up for their women.
We often forget the beautiful, conservative nature of this country because it embraces diversity so well.
Dina Tarek, Dubai
Speed is not the only driving risk
The incident mentioned in your story (Motorist caught speeding at 268km per hour on Emirates Road, February 24) isn't the only form of driving tactic that causes accidents on this road.
Often during the rush hour, I have witnessed cars hurtling up the hard shoulder because the drivers don’t want to wait patiently for their exit like other respectful road users.
There is never a police car in sight. In the UK, unmarked cars are often parked along the hard shoulder to prevent such idiotic driving. Perhaps they should do the same here?
Name withheld by request
Millionaires, but not a state
I agree with Joseph Dana's comments on the Palestinian Authority (After two decades, has the PA run its course? February 23).
All the billions of aid dollars have achieved is to create a political elite of millionaires, not a Palestinian state.
Chris Reid, Dubai
