Notices on notice

Unsightly notices are a blight on Abu Dhabi’s cityscape but they serve an important role

For rent signs like this will be banned under new rules. (Jeff Topping / The National)

The unsightly profusion of unauthorised notices offering everything from bedspaces to pest eradication are a familiar sight on Abu Dhabi's bus shelters, street posts and building facades. While they reflect the vibrancy of the community, they also detract from the capital's orderliness and attractiveness, which is why a Dh1,000 fine will now be imposed on those caught posting them.

While the way in which these informal advertisements are posted is a problem, they clearly fulfil a need. The question is how this demand can be met in a way that doesn’t detract from the urban environment. The incredibly high rate of ownership of smartphones in the UAE, even for those on the lower rungs of the economic ladder, means these might be posted online instead.

But that doesn’t offer the localised and serendipitous nature of posted advertisements. Maybe baqalas ought to provide a new and more appropriate venue to unite vendors and buyers?