The UAE has been my home for the past 25 years and it is the safe and secure environment of the country that has made it a preferred choice of many expatriates (Perceptions of crime in the UAE contrast with the reality, September 21).
The UAE has a considerably lower crime rate compared to my own country where it is impossible for people to wear jewellery or for women to roam around freely.
It is a privilege for us to live in a place that is so safe, especially for women. I have never had the slightest fear of being attacked or robbed even when I drive alone late at night.
Fatima Suhail, Sharjah
I was born and brought up in Abu Dhabi, where I work. But I have never seen an incident of crime in my life. For me, it is the safest place.
Ahmed Saidawi, Abu Dhabi
It’s one of the safest places I have lived in. Where else can you leave your car engine running when you are not present, or keep your front door open all night?
Andrea Nelson, Abu Dhabi
Dubai felt like the safest city my wife and I ever lived in. I can’t imagine going swimming anywhere else and not worrying that a bag with camera, phone and wallet would be taken.
Jamie Elfman, Dubai
Sadly, I know of a number of maids who have been mugged and a lady who had her purse stolen from her car. I agree that these are relatively isolated instances and that the crime rate is low in this country, but people should always remain vigilant.
Clare L'Estrange, Dubai
Recycling needs to start now
I am writing in reference to the news report Landfills in Northern Emirates causing concern for residents (September 19). When I was staying in Abu Dhabi, I realised to my surprise that no recycling was happening in the emirate. It was hard for me to just throw bottles and plastic bags in the bin.
Sue Todd, Dubai
Rents in Dubai are on the rise
It is hard for me to believe that house rents have fallen in Dubai (Rents fall in Dubai for first time in three years, September 21). There may be one per cent reduction in some parts, but rents have risen by more than 25 per cent in almost all of Dubai.
Cari du Lioncourt, Dubai
Scotland vote makes UK proud
Congratulations to the people of Scotland for voting to remain united (Scotland says no in historic independence referendum, September 19). The UK stands tall as it showed the courage to hold a free, transparent and democratic election.
The result of the referendum will also add lustre to prime minister David Cameron’s image as a leader.
Scotland will continue to benefit from its bonds with the UK in social, economic and military terms. Had it opted for separation, Scotland would have struggled to put its own armed forces together. Overall, this is a victory of democracy.
Countries across the world that are facing separatist demands should learn from this event that there is a way to resolve such issues peacefully through the ballot box.
Rajendra Aneja, Duba
I am from north Lanarkshire, which is right next to Glasgow where I worked. Both areas are impoverished and they both voted “yes”, because they wanted a change as life is not as good as it should be living in a wealthy country. I don’t know what standard of living they have elsewhere in Scotland. However, it must be good if they wanted to keep things the way they are.
John Curran, Dubai
It is not a sad day for Scotland, but a historic and memorable day, because it has chosen to stay as part of Great Britain. The United Kingdom affords me great privileges, a rich history and this marks an exciting future.
Emma Jane Robb, Dubai
