Khor Fakkan whale probably died before sustaining cuts

Readers discuss body image, debt and more

The whale that was found at Khor Fakkan port may have died way before being injured, says one reader. Courtesy Tarek Al Hamadi

I refer to your article Ship may have killed whale found off Khor Fakkan (November 28). It's more likely that the whale was already dead and that the body floated towards the boats or ships because of the pull their propellers were creating.

Morvarid Jalali, Dubai

Media influence to blame for self-harm 'trend'

Your article Doctors worried by increase in 'trendy' self-harming videos and rise in cases (November 28) was sad to read. All of this is happening because of the negative influence of the media, which makes us feel imperfect by idolising celebrities and singers who should only be cast as entertainers.

Biggy Hawas, Dubai

There is much to showcase on National Day

I refer to your online article UAE National Day: the facts, figures and fun bits you need to know (November 27). I would like to congratulate the UAE on its National Day. We landed in the UAE in 1978 and left in 2013. It was an amazing experience and we have nothing but the utmost respect for this benevolent country.

Josie Gonzalez Nabti, United States

Yet another National Day is upon a great country, which garnered many great achievements to its name because of the vision and legacy of Sheikh Zayed, the UAE's Founding Father. The extensive development this country has witnessed was made possible by the long-term vision of its great leaders. Each emirate has its own unique imprint, as highlighted in this rather informative article.

K Ragavan, India

Is debt really restructured by the banks?

In reference to your article How debtor owing Dh140,000 managed to keep banks happy and reverse his fortunes (November 28), this is precisely why you should never, ever take out credit cards.

Ahmed Shumayal, Al Ain

Unfortunately, this does not happen in the majority of cases. In fact, most lenders deny restructuring debt and you start to get calls to pay up even if you have paid your equated monthly installment. One of my friends is facing a similar issue.

Ashan Khan, Dubai 

Pink did not fail to inspire once again

I refer to your online report Abu Dhabi GP: Pink brings F1 to a close with a rocking show at du Arena (November 26). She is an amazing artist who does her own thing no matter what others think. It was a pity that it wasn't possible to buy tickets under the cheaper "just concert" category. By the time her show was announced, the "race tix" category tickets were extremely expensive. I hope she will come back to Dubai or Abu Dhabi with a concert that won't cost an arm and a leg.

Elena Zhukova, Dubai

Incredible performance by Pink. Live singing, audience interaction and dancing all rolled into one. A real talent.

Lesley Stables, Abu Dhabi

Very pleased by the concert. She was on before her 9pm cue. No lip-syncing, no drama, just a pure action-packed performance.

Thea Windley, Dubai