Let’s remember that UAE history includes now

Readers discuss what parts of UAE life should be preserved for future historians. Other topics: Christmas tolerance, UAE cycling, Emirati marriages and rehabilitated teens.

Readers stress the importance of cherishing culture as well as forts like Qasr Al Hosn. Photo: Courtesy Al Ittihad

Your editorial, What counts as history in a young nation (December 24), asks what should be recorded now so that people understand life in the UAE.

I think archivists should talk to members of the older generation – they witnessed the sand and tents and pearl fishing. What they say should be recorded while they are still around.

They should also ask for relics that might not be thought of as valuable, such as embroidery, which is forgotten in cupboards. It’s the same with buildings and artworks, which might not seem important now.

Tribal music should also be recorded and classes held at school so children can learn about typical Emirati instruments and poetry.

Brigitte von Bulow, Abu Dhabi

I believe the UAE needs to protect some of the “now” so that future generations will be able to understand their story.

When we arrived in Dubai, the original Hard Rock Cafe was being demolished. That is a world-renowned business and it was a milestone in the area’s development. At least part of it should have been saved.

The UAE is a very young country but it shouldn’t throw away its recent history as it develops. Preserve the past – it is relevant to the story of the future.

Fiona Cooke, Dubai

Tolerance is a Christmas gift

I count the UAE's tolerance of its Christian residents' seasonal celebrations as one of the best Christmas gifts we could ever receive from our Muslim brothers (Sharing in the festivities: Christmas a global online tradition for this Emirati, December 22).

It is done in the spirit of love, peace and unity. It could cause expatriates to think twice about leaving during the holiday season and instead invite families and friends here to experience and celebrate Christmas festivities in a different way.

From those of us who are far away from home, I’d like to say thank you and merry Christmas to the UAE.

Maria Santos, Abu Dhabi

UAE needs a city cycle network

With regard to Follow the leader in our bicycle revolution (December 13), your campaign encouraging people to cycle to work is a nice idea. But unless you live a short distance from work and have quiet roads in between, doing this without a support vehicle could be dangerous.

We have a great cycle track in Dubai and it would be great to build a cycle network similar to the Netherlands. But given that many places don’t even have pedestrian footpaths, I wonder if it is a priority.

Jeff Timson, Dubai

This is a great initiative but I think there must also be facilities like cycle paths for the sake of safety.

I would also advocate greater investment in traffic police to better enforce the existing laws.

Sam Clarke, Dubai

Who will Emirati women marry?

The reactions to Khalid Al Ameri's opinion piece, In the UAE's marriage debate, we have to stop looking back to the past (December 22), have traversed issues of love, children and cultural diversity.

As a foreigner working with Emiratis, I believe these are all positive points to be considered in this debate. However, I also believe other realities must be taken into consideration.

Emirati men generally have freedom of choice about who they marry, but what happens to Emirati women?

I work with many of them. I wish the real-life consequences for them would be discussed as well. So many of these beautiful hearts and souls seem destined to stay lonely.

Name withheld by request

Like Khalid Al Ameri’s Emirati-Scottish heritage, I would also be counted as a TCK – a third culture kid.

I’ve lived outside the US for 26 years, starting when my family moved to Germany when I was four and including Saudi Arabia, England, Central America, Morocco, Ethiopia and Afghanistan. I have now been in the UAE for four and a half years.

I consider myself privileged and honoured by this. I know I am a happier and fuller person because of this.

Monica Carver, Dubai

Praise for youths’ rehabilitation

After reading your report, Fujairah facility releases 45 juvenile delinquents after treatment (December 24), I want to praise the amazing work this unit has been doing in rehabilitating young people who were on the wrong path.

And well done to the youngsters themselves for changing their ways.

Jen Bishop, Abu Dhabi