Well done, Abu Dhabi, on a successful finale to the Formula One series (Hamilton takes Abu Dhabi GP, November 24).
The Etihad Formula One Grand Prix really was a treat to watch. The organisers did a great job from the issuing of tickets to the closing event.
Praise should be showered on the volunteers from Takatof who were well trained and well informed.
However, I have a wish list for next year’s event. It includes more television screens in the general stands, free earphones for following the commentary in English and Arabic, and a prominent display showing the lap number. Transport after the race is also an area for improvement.
Ramesh Menon, Abu Dhabi
Lewis Hamilton deserves the F1 title. He has matured this year as a person and, obviously, as a driver.
It was an excellent team result for Williams, too; it’s nice to see them back on top.
Francis Agudelo, Brazil
Even though I didn’t like the technical regulations this year, I have to say it was a great season.
Hamilton, who won 11 races this year, is a worthy two-time world drivers’ champion.
Craig Robinson, Australia
Hamilton is a champion in the true sense. I'm glad that he lived up to his fans' expectations. Fatima Suhail, Sharjah
Arabic teaching must be better
I don't disagree with the call for Arabic to be the language of instruction in schools (Arabic must be the main language in UAE education, FNC hears, November 24).
However, we first need to sort out the problems with teaching Arabic as a subject.
Arabic is taught in all schools, but the curriculum is outdated, the students do not enjoy the classes and the teaching methods are not up to international standards.
If the proposed law is to succeed, there is a need for overall reform.
The curriculum will need to be revised and text books overhauled to make sure they maintain cultural and religious requirements while discussing modern topics.
Teachers will need a degree in teaching Arabic as well as training in psychology. They will also have to use methods that establish pride in the language and make learning enjoyable.
Elena Schildgen, Dubai
People will only remember a language if they use it every day in regular conversation – especially at home. Otherwise, they will forget it.
Chris Reid, Dubai
The teachers at my daughter’s school do not seem to be capable of teaching Arabic.
My daughter has been learning for seven years, and some of her friends for even longer, but none of them can hold a conversation in Arabic. The teaching system is letting them down.
Name withheld by request
I think it is wonderful that children are learning Arabic in kindergarten.
I was a teacher at the American Community School in Abu Dhabi, and my students loved learning Arabic.
We had great teachers who made learning Arabic fun.
Josie Gonzalez Nabti, US
Taxi queue was well managed
I attended the Pharrell Williams concert on the weekend and I disagree with the writer of A bitter end to Pharrell show (November 24), who said that the taxi queue was not organised.
It was well organised. From my observation, the people who complained – and got into shoving matches with the officials trying to keep things orderly – were those who jumped the queue and expected to be allowed special privileges.
Kudos to the staff who kept the line moving and kept their tempers while this was going on. The rest of us appreciate what a great job they did.
Elan Fabbri, Abu Dhabi
Keeping away from Kardashian
I refer to Rym Ghazal's column, Why is the world so obsessed with Kim Kardashian? (November 19).
This whole business is typical of America these days. The reality shows, the ridiculous sports and the media are so tired. The country needs a wake-up call.
Yes, I am American – born and raised for 43 years – but I am now living overseas because of this.
M Lancaster, Dubai
I thought a “kardashian” was a long sweater. Now that I know the truth, it makes no difference at all.
Tracy Wilson, Abu Dhabi