I refer to Emirates Palace casts an eye on the movies (January 14), which says that the Abu Dhabi hotel is seeking to become a backdrop for international films.
The Emirates Palace offers glamour in abundance.
It is the perfect setting for any movie that requires sparkle and the impression of great wealth.
Brigitte von Bulow, Abu Dhabi
It has been a long time coming, but tram is welcome
I am writing about Dubai's multibillion dirham tram system set to begin testing (January 15).
It’s about time for this work to finish. There’s been construction going on outside my apartment block for over a year and a half.
I can’t wait just to cross the road without damaging my shoes or getting sand all over my feet. It’s been particularly hard on mothers trying to cross the road with prams, and I think we are all fed up with the mess.
The tram will be fantastic when it is up and running. Until then, I suppose we will have to persevere.
Sami Nk, Dubai
Different view of diplomatic row
I would like to make some points about Tion Kwa's article, Diplomatic row highlights the deep divides in Indian society (January 15), about the treatment of a maid by Indian diplomat Devyani Khobragade.
The maid was paid, she had free medical insurance, free lodging in a New York apartment and a paid holiday to India once a year. This adds up to tens of thousands of dollars.
The maid knew what salary she would be drawing when she agreed to sign the contract in India. Only after coming to the US did the maid, who wanted to emigrate to America, think that she was being under paid.
Notices from two different Indian courts are pending against this maid on charges of blackmail and theft.
American diplomats in New Delhi pay $1 (Dh37) a day to their Indian staff, which is a slave wage. Why is that OK?
I hope this helps clarify the situation.
G Vivah, India
Cultures share a sign of respect
I note that your Weekend columnist Ali Al Saloom has written several times about the custom of rubbing noses to show respect.
I descend from the Maori, the indigenous people of Aotearoa (New Zealand) and I would like to tell your readers that Maori have the same greeting as the Emiratis.
It has been our way of greeting family, friends, business associates and people from all walks of life since ancient times.
Hongi, as it is known, signifies the breath of life and sharing of mind, body and soul between two people.
K Barrett, New Zealand
Population powers property price rises
I am writing in response to Property prices in parts of Dubai up by 50 per cent in 2013 (January 13).
Demographics are the main reason behind this boom. When the population starts growing, so does the demand for housing.
Recent figures show that the population of Dubai keeps on increasing, hence the high real estate prices.
Name withheld by request
Southern delights excite expatriate
I was pleased to read Cravin' Cajun: American southern Cajun and Creole soul food comes east (January 14)
I'm so glad we finally have this kind of food in the UAE. I hope they will be importing crawfish this season. Adam Wilson, Dubai
Health insurance good for business
I refer to moves to introduce compulsory health insurance for private sector employees in Dubai.
This move will bring Dubai in line with Abu Dhabi, making health insurance compulsory for employees of private companies.
This will surely make these employees more satisfied and productive, and will indirectly give them a better return for their efforts.
M Jones, Dubai
