Long-term expat deserves credit for building local ties

A reader praises David Heard for his commitment to the UAE. Other topics: fire safety, car insurance, savings advice and an honest cab driver.

A reader praises David Heard , pictured in 1976, for his commitment to the UAE. Courtesy David and Frauke Heard-Bey

The story of David Heard (Meet the expat who stayed for 50 years, November 20) is fascinating.

Most expatriates in the Gulf region come with the sole intention of earning money and going back to their homeland to lead a comfortable retired life among their own folk.

However, beyond contributing to the economy in a matter-of-fact manner, they do not develop affiliations or emotional ties with the local people and conditions or the country itself.

That’s what makes people like David Heard special.

Such individuals and their families should be appreciated for their continued participation in the magnificent transformation of the Gulf region, and helping take it to enviable heights.

CS Pathak, India

Shining a light on window film

I am writing about ways to make homes energy efficient (Dubai towers plan to slash energy consumption by a third, November 14).

I’d just like to clarify that using window film does not have to mean a loss of natural light inside a room.

The products used are balanced between allowing plenty of light into the home and blocking negative effects of the sun, such as glare and ultraviolet rays.

Gavin Bannerman, Dubai

Giving due credit to musical talent

Thanks to Sara Batran for Watching the wheels of steel with the UAE's aspiring DJs (November 17).

It’s good to see local talent getting some well-earned exposure.

Eyad Khalil, Dubai

Seek good advice on car insurance

I refer to UAE car insurance premiums could rise as system replaced (October 19).

Motorists must be careful to purchase a motor insurance policy that’s based on their personal requirements.

For example, if you have more than one vehicle, it will almost certainly be better for you to purchase an all-inclusive policy that covers all your cars for one affordable payment.

There are many reputable insurance companies in the UAE who will help you find the best tailored car-insurance solution.

Name withheld by request

Discipline is key to saving money

I am writing in reference to the post on The National's Your Money blog, Five ways to tackle financial stress (July 25.)

It’s a great list, but I’d like to add that everyone should apply discipline when handling money.

No matter what age we are, we need to remember that we can face a financial problem at any time.

We have to set our minds to saving a set percentage of our monthly pay cheque no matter what.

Otherwise, we risk joining the growing ranks of people who don’t know how to manage their money and blow it as soon as they earn it.

Name withheld by request

Honest driver is an inspiration to us all

I was inspired by the photograph of a beaming Nure Alam that accompanied the story about him, Cabbie returns Dh88,500 (November 20).

Keep that smile on your face, Nure, you deserve it.

As your name suggests, you are the light (Nur) of the world (Alam). We are all proud of you.

Mohammed Ambia, Sharjah

My faith in humanity has been restored after reading this story.

Rafik Jabbour, Dubai

Fire safety should be made a priority

I refer to One killed as fire breaks out at Abu Dhabi apartment block (November 19).

It seems to me that there have been too many tower-block fires in Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the past 12 months.

Fires like this are going to occur, and more lives will be lost, unless safety regulations are strictly enforced.

We need to ensure that all buildings have fire extinguishers, hoses, safety staircases and fire doors that aren’t locked, and that there is no rubbish in stairwells.

Sylvia Moore, Dubai