Rural areas around the globe need support on education

Readers discuss public decency, education for the less fortunate and more

Rural areas are often left out of the education spectrum, argues one reader. Bloomberg

I refer to your article, Sharjah ruler tells book fair that education is key to terrorism fight (October 13). Today, the entire globe faces the threat of terrorism, which can be blamed on illiteracy, poverty and the ever-increasing disparity in income between rich and poor. Education is the key to overcoming all of this. As Sharjah ruler Sheikh Sultan Al Qasimi rightly said, education should be given more priority. Rural areas around the globe should be targeted, as a lack of education in these pockets is rampant.

K Ragavan, India

UAE laws apply to everyone in equal measure

I refer to your article, UAE's indecency laws explained after public gestures land westerners in trouble (October 9). My advice is: if you visit a country, at least read a couple of articles on its norms and cultures or ask friends about their experiences while living there. The laws for tourists here are very relaxed unless you really upset someone. By the way, in many European countries, sticking your middle finger up at somebody may not land you in jail, but it can certainly get you a fine of up to 300 Euros (Dh1,300). As the famous saying goes, when in Rome, do as the Romans do.

Elena Zhukova, Dubai

This does not only apply to westerners, so rumours about specific nationalities being singled out are false. We all know Dubai is open to everyone and that there is a certain decorum that needs to be maintained by one and all, especially taking into account the massive culture discrepancies out here. There are countless nationalities and the laws must be followed by everyone irrespective of who they are and where they come from. I have lived in Dubai all my life and have seen this law apply to people from all walks of life.

Mathew Litty, Dubai

Never overlook the small blessings in life

Your article, Blind woman's nine-year battle to earn citizenship for son ends (October 10), was a very sad read indeed. Sight is one of our most precious gifts. Thankfully, she has received the help she needed.

MaryAnn Williamson, United States 

UAE is well ahead of Vision 2021 goals

Your editorial, We have to change our attitude to littering (October 13), was thought-provoking. Cleanliness levels in cities and coasts across the UAE are laudable. They are well ahead of their goals for Vision 2021. Scientists have long warned of the perils of litter on the environment and the country has made great strides in addressing this issue.

Name withheld by request

The value we attribute to objects is subjective

I refer to your article, What makes these scruffy shoes worth Dh150,000? (October 10). Things are only worth what someone is prepared to pay for them. Monetary value is therefore a subjective phenomenon, if you ask me.

Tanya Milbourne, Abu Dhabi