Illegal jet ski operators must be punished

Jet skis are the definition of thrill, fun and adventure for many people since the machines are affordable and easy to rent, only requiring an Emirates card (Abu Dhabi's jet ski operators unfazed in face of government fines, February 27). However, the authorities are right to have banned these jet skis in certain areas and to prevent jet ski operators from leasing them to anyone below the age of 18.

It is absolutely wrong and negligent of these jet ski operators to violate the laws and ignore the fines to recover their investment in the business. These operators must be slapped with heftier fines to deter them from breaking the law. They cannot be free of their responsibilities and put the entire blame on customers in an event of a mishap or accident.

Fatima Suhail, Sharjah

It’s not just those riding jet skis who are in danger. Anyone else in the water – whether swimming, in a canoe or even on a small boat – doesn’t stand a chance should an accident occur.

Lynette Fortey-Burnett, Dubai

Jazz festival act was phenomenal

This refers to the article Chris Botti and Sting are a solid double act at The Dubai Jazz Festival (February 26). It says: "At times, one felt that Botti and his crew were trying too hard with the extended rock and blues jams – it almost felt like he was trying to justify himself for being the arena act that he now is."

In fact Botti and his “backing band” were phenomenal in every sense of the word. And definitely not overshadowed by Sting at any point. How about the amazing drum (Lee Pearson) and piano (Geoffrey Keezer) solos? And not a word mentioned about the incredible Sy Smith and her vocal skills.

Pavlina Rangelova, Abu Dhabi

Caroline Campbell was the violinist, not a vocalist as you have mentioned. For me, this was right up there with the best of the best. Surprisingly, there is no mention of the drummer.

Shirley Smith, Abu Dhabi

Bad driving in bad weather

I was driving from Abu Dhabi to Dubai in the fog last Sunday (The air bag: Cutting through the fog of weather problems, February 26). At parts I was down to 50 kph while many were still whizzing past at 120. Needless to say there was a huge pile up in Jebel Ali. It was scary.

Derek Magill, Dubai

Unfortunately, fines here are no deterrent. However, a long weekend in a cell might be.

Name withheld by request

VAT makes every sense

If I had to levy a duty on items knowing full well that the biggest income generator for the country was dwindling and not bringing in as much money as it used to, I would introduce VAT (There is no need to fear the new VAT, February 26).

Also if I didn’t want to stop the excellent contribution the UAE has and continues to make in terms of providing aid to war-torn countries, I would definitely introduce a minimum of a 5 per cent VAT charge.

I think some people who live here think that money grows on date palms. It doesn’t, just like in your own countries. Change is inevitable in a growing nation just as it was in your countries before they levied taxes there.

Name withheld by request

It isn’t that bad, in Australia there is a 10 per cent VAT (they call it the goods and services tax). As long as renta don’t attract the VAT, I think it will be OK.

Tony Haddad, Dubai

Gulf retailers should just be forced to absorb it on their outrageous margins. Why should it impact the customers when the prices are already close to twice the price at home with 20 per cent VAT?

Thomas Mnt, Dubai

It will bring a sense of reality to the UAE and is essential for a stable long-term economic future. Welcome to the real world.

Nick Schumann, Dubai