Exhibition puts a spotlight on UAE

A reader says she enjoyed the camels and other attractions at the Adihex show. Other topics: the UN, driving and farewell to a champion.

A reader says her family enjoyed seeing the camels and other displays at Adihex. Delores Johnson / The National

On Friday night, my family spent four hours at the magnificent Abu Dhabi International Hunting and Equestrian Exhibition (Adihex).

The diversity of the stands was incredible: from stables to silver teapots all made by the same silversmith here in the UAE - but, sadly, we were told that this craft is not being taken up by the younger generation.

We also saw camels, horses, an environmental awareness display, paintings by up and coming Emirati artists, a heritage village, books about archaeology and the history of the Emirates, an archery display and, of course, falcons.

We left the exhibition hall with a very happy feeling. We saw the UAE show the best it has to offer and if we had been asked to give it a grade, A+ would not be high enough.

However, we did not go into the gun section; we happily gave that a miss.

Brigitte von Bulow, Abu Dhabi

Fond memories of champion athlete

I refer to Arab triathlon champion killed by car (September 7), about the death of Roy Nasr.

Rest in peace, Roy. You always set an example and your memory will live on.

Manuela Chaaya Watfa, Abu Dhabi

This is so sad. More cycle paths are needed in Dubai.

Izabella Salloum, Dubai

How sad that a man who kept fit to be healthy and live longer should die like his.

My heart goes out to the family who lost him.

Agnes Aquino-Briggs, Dubai

United Nations a relic of a past era

As the killings continue in Syria, and presidents Obama and Putin decide who will manipulate the world, it is now beyond time that the anachronistic boys' club of original nuclear powers was dissolved and a democratic assembly formed to regulate the affairs of the international community.

The five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council - Britain, France, Russia, the US and China - retain their position by reason of their nuclear status from the last century.

However, that status is now not only indelibly devalued because Pakistan, North Korea and Israel are also nuclear powers, but because it is grossly unrepresentative of the modern world.

India, also a nuclear power, will soon have the largest global population yet it has no permanent seat in the Security Council.

The concept of any one member having the power of veto over global affairs is ludicrous in the 21st century. For example, America has for decades routinely vetoed any resolution critical of Israel.

Now is time for the current irrelevant and impotent UN to be replaced with a new, valid representative organisation that can lead the world to a secure future.

Anthony Bellchambers, UK

Best advice is to drive cautiously

I refer to Steer clear of anger for a cool run (August 29).

My understanding about driving is simple: consider every driver around you as your potential enemy and drive with caution to save yourself from their aggressive behaviour.

Rattan KK, Dubai

A moment for reflection on life

I refer to Asmaa Al Hameli's simple yet reflective blog post, A recent holiday has broadened my mind (September 20).

I can relate to this article, as it has taken me a long time to realise that we each go down our own unique path in life and don't need to compare it to the journeys of others.

Name withheld by request

Why are polite people pushy?

I am writing in reference to Hareth Al Bustani's blog post, The queuing situation in the UAE (August 30).

The culture of pushing in is frustrating and very rude, not to mention life-threatening when it is done in a car.

This region is home to some of the most polite and courteous people in the world - until they get behind the wheel or have to queue for something.

Richard Kupisz, Abu Dhabi