Sick joke of salik
Amen:
"Today is the 100th day of the introduction of the Salik toll system in Dubai. Since its launch on July 1, it is believed that the road toll system, the first of its kind in the UAE and in the region, has earned revenues of more than Dh200 million.
"However, it has done little to ease traffic jams on the targeted road and on roads leading to the controlled zone. On the contrary, the situation has become worse."
As predicted here and by a thousand other right thinking individuals.
As Gulf News points out, the government could have collected revenues much more easily by a simple tax, which would have cost motorists less as well.
But Dubai is currently being run by a combination of liars and cretins.
"Today is the 100th day of the introduction of the Salik toll system in Dubai. Since its launch on July 1, it is believed that the road toll system, the first of its kind in the UAE and in the region, has earned revenues of more than Dh200 million.
"However, it has done little to ease traffic jams on the targeted road and on roads leading to the controlled zone. On the contrary, the situation has become worse."
As predicted here and by a thousand other right thinking individuals.
As Gulf News points out, the government could have collected revenues much more easily by a simple tax, which would have cost motorists less as well.
But Dubai is currently being run by a combination of liars and cretins.
Labels: driving
105 Comments:
Dubai is currently being run by a combination of liars and cretins.
I think that's a bit extreme, SecretDubai.
On the whole, for an emirate that's exploding at the rate Dubai is, I think it is being remarkably well-run on the whole.
My guess is that what happened with Salik is this. The technology was so sexy and irrestible (and sold to the government by a very good sales team) that it was implemented without fully thinking through what a road toll really is.
It should be a way to finance an improvement to the road system. And therein lies the flaw in its implementation.
I maintain that increasing the toll during busy times and reducing it to nothing during quiet times will lead to a positive change in traffic patterns.
It's only been a hundred days, and I'm sure suggestions like this are still being discussed at the highest levels.
And what kind of qualification do u have "secret dubai" to say that "Dubai is currently being run by a combination of liars and cretins."
Maybe we can have an insight on who u are and what it is u do for a living before u state such comments. Perhaps u think that you have what it takes to run Dubai? Or are u in some sort of panel which judges the Growth and Development of Dubai? some internationally certified institute?
Anything?
The rumour I hear is that the Salik toll gates are where they are primarily because Sheikh Mohammed was getting embarrased at visiting dignitaries spending an hour in traffic between the airport and his palace - if you drive that route, it works fine...
The whole thing has been modelled on a system that probably works well in Sweden or someplace - ie. people don't mind paying the equivalent of Dh4 for a clear road. The mentality in Dubai is different though - people will go well out of their way, and sit in traffic, just to get out of paying that toll, especially when it's so easy to drive around the gates... What winds me up is that it takes half an hour just to get out of my street in the mornings because of the thousands of cars on their salik-avoidance route.
But, SD, I do think liars and cretins is a bit strong - newly-gifted press freedom or not, you're going to get a pretty strong reaction to that...
The RTA are experts in traffic management while you are not. Everyone can see that Salik has been a tremendous success as traffic jams have vanished since July 1st.
Actually, I think liars is a pretty good term to describe the folks running the RTA. In fact, I'd say that SecretDubai is being easy on them.
What else do you call a group of people who continue to insult the collective intelligence of every single person who lives in this city? When they insist, against all evidence to the contrary, that the toll system is "a complete success", that's what they're doing.
I've noticed a lot of people recently justifying Salik because 'the RTA needs money to finance the road projects'. That's great. Why do they insist again and again that it's a tool to ease traffic? That's a blatant lie.
As to them being cretins? Well, implementing the toll system during the low season of the summer, and implementing it before any of the road projects were done.. well, that's a pretty low move by the RTA.
So yeah, I'd say liars and cretins is a pretty accurate descriptions. Not of everyone in the government, mind, but it applies damned well to the RTA.
Don't even get me started about the brilliant minds at the Ministries of Labor and Education...
Liars & cretins, hear hear.
The same liars and cretins who have made every schoolkid take home a Dubai Cares raffle book in order to boost 'brand Dubai' to be the caring sharing place it is. And I'll bet it won't be my kid who hands over the cheque to UNICEF amid great fanfare and applause. I'll give to my own charities, thank you, quietly and privately.
The same liars and cretins who mouthe environmental plattitudes whilst building a bloody great aluminium smelter next to a stunning mangrove; or 13 more water guzzling golf courses for a handful of gin swilling dodderers who can afford it.
The same liars and cretins who promise your 'lifestyle' on the beach overlooking a greasy sea, a concrete jungle, a power ststion and the poor sod who built it having a shat in the sand cos there's no site bogs.
And don't get me started on Salik....
Dubai is currently being run by a combination of liars and cretins.
What do you mean, 'currently'?
Speaking about Dubai Cares:
I wonder if anyone has picked up on the fact that some Locals who have pledged a certain amount of money to Dubai cares are getting it back, by making a mandatory deduction in their employee salaries (anywhere between dhs 50 - 200 dhs.)
This has also happened in a few schools where there is an addition of Dhs 100 to the school fee for this.
And guess who gets the credit for being "generous".
And speaking about the experts in RTA. The truth behind the toll is that it is being used to generate revenue, since they so brilliantly decided to construct every aspect of the Metro at the same time (thereby draining their coffers). Instead of trying to get sections of the Metro up and running quickly (and thus generating revenue and also not causing a mess across the whole town at the same time), they started everything together. Some experts these.
-DD
Dubai Cares:
Zakat if you are a muslim.
Jizya if you a non-muslim.
Submit NOW.
:RB
They could finance everything here in the UAE if they just curtailed the spending power of the royals.
Every year billions is spent by the Royals on the most pointless luxuries, and no one but no one has any say about it.
Why cant it be like the UK where the Royals have an annual allowance from the govt? Its ridiculous the amount of money these people steal from the people.
Now you see the lot having lots of children, guess what? All of them will want the same lifestyle as daddy and before you know it you will have a basket case like Saudi Arabia. You just wait.
Hmm, a system that monitors the movement of every car in town? Now why would any government want one of those?
I work in RTA.
Salik is working great making too much money.
So we give pay rise to office boys this month.
Before they make 600 dirhams. Now they make 605 dirhams.
I feel shame I work for such peopl.
RTA don't plan well, i think that's more accurate than the description i saw.
they are investing AED40 billion over 3 years in Dubai's roads, metro, trams, water taxis, buses, road taxis. They will make AED600 million a year from Salik, or AED1.8 billion over 3 years, so less than 5% of the Total they are investing. The Metro will only come on line in late 2009, so no income from that for a while.
But it's not enough and there is no excuse, Sheikh Mohamed's Strategic plan says Dubai will see its residents grow from 1.7m in 2007 to 5m by 2015, plus the tourists visiting here. So when Mattar Al Tayar who heads RTA says he needs to reset the plan as they didn't anticipate the growth....
But then RTA is only 2 years old, so what do you expect ?
And though it won't be popular the private car is the biggest problem the RTA has, so look out for new "costs" related to cars, such as registration fees going up dramatically, plus petrol is too cheap, parking is cheap and they are looking at who gets to drive & register a car based on their job, so in other words make sure that cars are not available for everyone....
Is'nt it gorgeous how they work,
about 31 days a year the government collects money for the poor, and the whole world has to know about it.
The 334 days left of the year... they recollect it from the richer ones to build there personal fairytale paradise
;)
Fortunately, I don’t live in Dubai. Such current driving conditions is nerve wrecking, and to be frank, I never felt the need for defensive driving like I felt in Dubai. Even Alain, which many of the drivers there have erratic driving habits, has more relaxing times!!
Despite my lack of enough experience with Salik, still I can see that many people in Dubai don’t like it and it did not make their lives better.
So, Why that RTA didn’t consider the opinion of the public in such important matter? At least they can consider the suggestions about decreasing or eleminating rates at certain times and in public holidays.
Yeah , I know, the public opinions has no weight here whats so ever. What matter is the opinion of the crème de la crème of this society, who don’t have fixed working time to worry about. eh like if they are really working anyway.
Anyhow, Salik is just a source of revenue for the RTA, and its not a bad thing, all these new roads need lots of money, so why they can’t just admit it and regain the respect of the people? Wait a minute, respect of the people is not important either. You would know by now which kind of respect is important to RTA staff.
Nevertheless, RTA could prove us wrong if it showed us solid statistical facts with honest analysis (hmmm, honest! I guess I am asking too much) that shows that Salik is really making a difference. I know that many individuals already formed their conclusions about it, but nothing is better than a scientific approach to a problem. So, RTA bring up your evidence, or you are just like what SD said about you.
INCOMPETENT, is I think a better term.
Possibly due to a lack of awareness, knowledge & belief that money can be thrown at any problem to solve it.
My question: "Is anybody actually accountable/responsible for this incompetence?"
Very Good post SD. Keep up the good work.
Still no answer to my question- any volunteers before Eid? Why do those that run the country criminalise eating in public? Where in the Koran does it state that during Ramadan, eating in public is forbidden for those who are not fasting? I am a muslim and cannot find this 'rule' so I may explain it to my non fasting colleagues. They understand it is disrespectful to eat or in front of anyone who is fasting but a crime with a Jail term??
Well at least these guys running Dubai will have a longer Eid break than the rest of us working stiffs. http://www.gulfnews.com/nation/Heritage_and_Culture/10158866.html
I do not understand why EVERYONE does not get the SAME HOLIDAYS. Can anyone explain this please?
To answer anon who asks why we cant eat in public.
Its because its been scientifically proven in the holy month of ramadhan eating in public causes excesive farting on the part of the eaters; and its not fair on everyone else.
Now I believe I have provided you with a satisfactory answer, now shut it.
To answer anon who asks why we cant eat in public.
Its because its been scientifically proven in the holy month of ramadhan eating in public causes excesive farting on the part of the eaters; and its not fair on everyone else.
Now I believe I have provided you with a satisfactory answer, now shut it.
Why can't we eat in public?
Cos the fasters are intolerant bigots who enforce respect and do not have an ounce of self control.
-DD
Cos the fasters are intolerant bigots who enforce respect and do not have an ounce of self control.
Good God, "the fasters", SOME of the fasters think that that rule is dumb. Quit generalizing.
I hope this post on salik wont turn into a discussion on islam again. -_-
Where is the love?
Why we can't eat in public?
I wonder about that too!
Cause all of you have already eaten before sunrise, while we have not......
and we do that 365 days a year!
I sense alot of hate :)
and to all the haters out there i say..
If u think that dubai is such a retarded place full of bullshit n whatnot.. then u can all go back to where u came from :) problem solved!
Secondly.. We fast .. it is an Islamic country... u guys WORK here.. and live here.. but it is an Islamic country.. so we fast.. and YOU guys, having made the decision of living in Dubai, have to abide by its rules, granted you get to chose ur own faith n beliefs, but Dubai is a muslim city after all :)
Well Mariam,
I don't live there ;)
And God bless me I don'nt have to live in a hypokrit place like that!
Don't open my mouth, I know someone who works for the Government, and believe me, what happens in Dubai? Is ugly....
Mariam,
First, I have no reason to be thankful to Dubai. I work hard for what I have and I don't get anything for free. The day Dubai pays all my bills, I will be thankful and abide by its hypocritical, intolerant rules.
Second, I guess you are saying that since you people fast everyone else has to. In that case, since the catholics have Lent how come they don't enforce that in their countries. If you people do not have the self control to resist food, just say so instead of giving us this B.S excuse of "respect of local culture and ramadan".
And please cut the crap about this place being an islamic country - There are a lot of things in this country that your islamic govt turns a blind eye to (prostitution, gambling - yes raffles are gambling, alcohol etc etc etc).
Just face the fact Mariam that you belong to an intolerant belief system.
-DD
Anonymous1: So u dont live here but u think u have the right to judge dubai cuz "u know people who say stuff"
errrm ookaaiy..
As for the 2nd anonymous dude:
i dont expect u to be thankful to anyone.. u chose whoever u get to be grateful to! its just common courtesy..
As for fasting in dubai, i speak from my point of view as a muslim, and of my people when i say that ramadan is all about the spirit of being united.. I do not expect u to understand, my point earlier was, if u walk in dubai during ramadan sippin a cuppa coffee.. it goes against what this month stands for.. and we respect ramadan and our beliefs..
And i dont think comparing it to other countries during lent is the same.. cuz they have different seasons, so it just wont make sense to have different people fast throughout the year. Or whatever.. i dont go butting into their business really :)
Mariam,
You say ramadan is about the spirit of unity.
You don't create unity by forcing others to fast along with you.
You say you don't butt into others business - so why is it anyone's business whether I decide to have a coffee in public.
And finally, you pointed out earlier that since Dubai is a muslim country we all have to abide by muslim rules. How come muslims in non-muslim countries don't abide by those rules (would you like me to give proof of this)?
-DD
DD
The spirit i was talkin about is for us muslims, obviously.. WE feel united by this month, it has nothing to do with u guys, and no one expects u to fast! infact u can order takeout from almost everywhere..
Me not accepting people eating in public is not butting into their business.. it is thrown in my face.. now if i was to go peak inside their office/car/home that would be called butting in :)
Again u are mis interpreting what i said, u abide by the rules in whatever country u chose to live in, thats kinda how it works out. Religion has nothing to do with it!
Muslim rules are for us muslims, and each and every one of us takes responsibilities to their own actions. No matter where they are.
Mariam,
its not so difficult to judge Dubai.
Others pointed it out before, alcohol, prostitution, drugs (yes drugs).
The whole islam country is just a laugh, when you know you can watch porn on sattelite tv in Dubai....
How about the tolerance of whores?
And lets not talk about murder and torture in jails!
Wake up woman.
"What others point out" is hardly a proper way of stating facts, numbers and stats, preferably comparative to other countries of this day and age is probably more sound.
Alcoholics, drug users, people who watch porn or choose to pay for sex have all chosen to do so. In every country there is the good and the bad.. the right and the wrong (morally, religiously .. etc) u do not get to judge a whole country by what others chose to do.
You cannot say that Prostitution is not frowned upon here in Dubai, the same goes to alcohol and Drugs.. Sadly though, since Dubai is opening up to new cultures our morals are getting mixed up.
But you do not get to judge us cuz as i said, u need to have solid facts. And as Muslims living in Dubai, we try our best to close the doors of temptation, however.. u can only do so much.
Oh and about the murders in jail, i think there's some kinda worldwide committee that looks into these matters, human rights and all :) maybe they should have a say in all of this!
I see u have alot of strong feelings against Dubai for someone who doesnt live there :)
Murder and torture in jail? you must be mistaking Dubai for Abu Ghuraib or GITMO...
Don't i love it when hypocrite lecture about hypocrisy!
Human rights in Dubai????
Don't make me laugh!!!!
Read this about human rights in Dubai!
http://www.uaeprison.com/
SD please make this link clickable
Show them the human rights
http://www.uaeprison.com/
Please!
A hypocrite???
A.I SAID: THERE ARE CERTAIN INSTITUTES RESPONSIBLE ABOUT HUMAN RIGHTS AND NOT ANY RANDOM LOSER WHO POSTS SHIT ON A WEBSITE SAYING BULL CAN BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY. THERE ARE PEOPLE WHO DEAL WITH IT. OBVIOUSLY NOT U GUYS!
B.AS I SAID EARLIER, IF DUBAI IS SO FUCKED UP THEN WHY THE FUCK ARE U STILL HERE? TRY COMPARING IT TO ALL THE SHIT GOIN ON EVERYWHERE ELSE AND MAYBE UR GONNA GET OFF UR HIGH HORSES!
stupid haters!
Dear Mariam
human rights are fighting the emirates already for a long time:
http://hrw.org/english/docs/2003/09/19/uae6388.htm
Hmmmm Marian, does Islam also say, spit your hate out on everyone who does'nt agree?
;)
Well then they should be able to deal with it, new rules can be enforced.
Migrant workers would not come here if they were doing any better at their own countries. This is a fact.
And what started off by an insult to the people running dubai, has evolved into a conversation about fasting, human rights, prostitution and the commercial Dubai Cares.. to name a few of the issues raised in just one post.
To you dubai is tainted, and you enjoy pointing out the defects of a growing country that has done so much in so little time.
So as the saying goes never wrestle with a pig, you get dirty; and besides, the pig likes it.
Having said that.. i'm outta here!
Mariam wake up, click on the 'site meter' of this blog, then you will see, not half of the people who visit this blog, live in Dubai.
Most of them don't.
That does'nt mean they don't know anything about Dubai.
Some of them know more about it then the ones who live there.
Reporters who read and post here for example ;)
Djeez Mariam sick and empty brain!
Now i understand why they control idiots like you overthere!
Anonymous "reporter" living outside dubai:
Well then They should start a comparative study and THEY can get off their high horses too!
I don't believe a shit of what you are talking about.
Cause if this is true, and you would write to SD, you would be an assoult to the moslim people who live there.
Are you such an hypokrit woman who stays up till 4:25 to talk trash?
i did post a topic saying RTA is nothing but more of a money maker and the SALIK idea will completly fall through on this and many other forumes, glad to see my words come into action - to REDUCE a problem...you find a solution, NOT A BACK DOOR!(EASY WAY OUT)
Dear Mariam,
Fasting during the Holy month of Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. Abstinence and serving humanity is the essence of Ramadan. As Muslims, it's a test of our faith to follow the rules of the Holy month given the most unfavorable conditions. When you force non-Muslims to fast with us, it implies that without them supporting us, we cannot be a devout Muslim! That's why I'm totally against easing of working hours and forcing everyone to fast.
Mariam, one of the points being raised here is that if Dubai is a muslim country where non muslims can not eat in public during Ramadan, then why does this muslim country tolerate prostitution, gambling, bribery, sale of alcohol and almost everything else that is against Islam?
You have not answered that, instead you have used a lot of 4 lettered words starting with F, which is not very Islamic, and not very suitable for a lady. If indeed you are a lady.
In my opinion everyone has a right to criticise any city, whether they live there or not. According to you only experts should talk and everyone else should shut up ! That's very unfair.
I have used to live in Dubai for 3 years and I must say something about the fasting and Ramadan.As a non-muslim we were forced to work normal full hours while others had short days and same for other religion holidays.Luckily I was not a low level labour. So I said clearly that in that case I would have holiday for Christmas and Easter.Since that nobody ever asked for anything like that again.
I have no problem to respect your religion but I want same rights as you. In our country nobody think about forcing you to work during religion holiday if you are muslim.Because you are all equal (MAN/WOMAN) and religion is your private matter you will follow if you mean it seriously! And I remember few people who said to me I can eat and drink in front of them as they truly beleive in it. And not because the society wants them to do. Those have my full respect!
It seems none of the 'Muslims'can answer a simple question- where in the Koran does it state that non fasters must not eat in public during Ramdan?
We all know it's insensitive to the fasters but even as a Muslim I am unable to explain to my colleagues why eating in public, the office etc during Ramadan is a crime with a possible jail sentence.
I've written to the newspapers and even they wont't touch this one....
Are the Ministry making laws up themselves??
Mariam
you are simply digging your own grave by being ignorant and not dicussing issues at hand. You are trying to sweep the flaws of "growing" Dubai under the carpet! Please stop writing in some BS for we sure know what we all are talking about. Besides, the Dubai govt is only interested in $$$$ and lots of $$$$ while turning a blind eye to the anti ISLAMIC lifestyles that it takes pride in...for example prostitution, Raffle draws ( Haraam )monopoly etc etc. Please give a suitable reply only if you have one otherwise please don't make a fool of yourself!
Wow lot of harsh towards Dubai and its muslim population.
I am sure all the people that are attracted to Dubai have their reasons. Sure, Dubai has its flaws mainly the traffic jams and the inflation (especially for rent), but then nobody forced us to stay here.
Maybe Dubai should try and make their residents participate more in everyday life instead of showering us with rules and regulations that may change any time. But that is hardly possible under the actual form of governance.
As informed/educated as all Westerners are, we all knew that the Gulf countries are not known to be thriving democracies...
Now, not being able to eat during ramadan in public is a thorny topic and i admit that i don't get it myself. But then don't forget, next ramadan will be close to august, why don't you plan your annual holiday around that time !!!
Another topic, why is alcohol only served after sunset during ramadan ? does it make it more acceptable?
Mariam said:
"So as the saying goes never wrestle with a pig, you get dirty; and besides, the pig likes it."
So are you trying to say you are a dirty pig or Dubai is the dirty pig and you want us to stop "wrestling" you two?
:-)
-DD
Ha, Am enjoying my pork chilly right now! Wish Mariam was around :-)
Can we get back to bitching about RTA and salik please. thats more fun.
Its no wonder SD doesnt post as often as she used to. It doesnt matter what she blogs about, there are a bunch of you that will turn the comments page into a non-relevant mud flinging exercise in seconds.
I imagine I too would get tired of crafting intelligent meaningful posts, only for them to be completely ignored in favour of yet more childish circular arguments about Islam.
I absolutely agree. This blog has become a forum for the one issue people. Its disgusting.
Everything has to be turned into some sort of anti people who live here. Its simple guys, you dont like it, get the fuck out. GET THE FUCK OUT.
SD has been quick to criticise views on her, and sometimes has banned strong anti western opinion.
However it seems to be open season for all kinds of anti islamic sentiments here.
Anyhow this is my last post here, and I am never coming back, not even to read. Adios.
anon at 13.23 above who said she will never come back sounds a lot like another one who said the same and was banned a while back :-)
if you guys don't like to hear the truth, pls don't drop in. read gulf news and khaleej times, you get all the royal suck ups news you want.
and if you cant take criticism..right or wrong ( no one is denying half the criticism may be prejudiced) then don't read. the whole point of criticism is exactly what it means..it is a point of view. and in case you guys did not realise...in other cultures it is okay to have a point of view. Not everyone has to reppeat the same thing they are told by the powere that are.
and to the " GET OUT OF DUBAI IF YOU DONT LIKE" brigade, I have the same to say to all of your relatives in the west and other DEVELOPED countries benefiting from the education and intellectual progress there : GET OUT FROM THE WEST since you all seem to hate it so much. Learn whatever your culture has developed, not what the west developed.
So strong is the fear that Dutch values of tolerance are under siege by immigrants that the government two years ago introduced a primer on Dutch values for prospective newcomers to Dutch life: a DVD briefly showing topless women and two men kissing. The message: Embrace our culture - or go home.
The same applies to Dubai
to anon at 16.49 who said "The message: Embrace our culture - or go home."
Think before you write something. There is a shitload of difference being a immigrant ( you get citizenship, you belong, you have equal rights, you really own property, you get passport, you elect your leaders) and to being a slave laborer in Dubai ( you are not an immigrant, you are just an expatriate working there). So embracing dubai values is not really on top of priority for any worker in dubai. Dubai needs them for the expertise and work, and they need dubai for the money. Quid pro quo. Do not hyperinflate dubai's value in their life. It is just a shit dump with more money.
Guess which region/religion these intolerant immigrants in Holland are from?
One wonders, if we are ordered to respect local culture and customs in their countries, how come they cannot extend the same courtesy to us when they move into our countries.
Three guesses why this is (here is a hint - it is something to do with their belief system that says that they are superior to all non-believers)
-DD
On a completely unrelated note, I thought you should know that you won the Windows Middle East award for the best blog. Well Deserved!! Congratulations!!
Arabian Prince, thanx.
A few days ago there was an opinion poll on KT.
"Is Salik prone to cheating?"
What does it mean?
Perhaps the system is cheating its master? (AI at work?)
hey Arabian Prince you are missing Mariam in your list !!!
Me thinks Secret has moved out of Dubai........Congratulations!
Just like my America.
WWW.SAVELOUIS.COM
All those moslims who live in the emirates, should come to Belgium in the Holy mounth of Ramadam:
1- They wil have to work till the work is done, no early stop!
2- They will have to watch us eating hamburgers, icecreem, chips etc.
3- They will have to pass restaurants, public places where everybody is drinking and eating
4- In some places at work they even sit with the others during lunchtime watching how others are eating.
5- They will have to wait till after 9 pm to eat, cause thats when the sun goes down.
Here in Belgium, the moslims know what Ramadam is all about.
Here, they have to do an effort.
And yes, in that case, they have my full respect.
But in Dubai, they are making things a little bit tooooo easy.
Hmm, the 'liars and cretins' bit is a little too harsh .. :) Politics and truth don't mix well anyway, so why expect anything to be different in this country ?.
I think Salik has had a good effect in certain areas at the cost of making life miserable in other areas.
But the bulk of the problem stems not from salik, but the coinciding of Salik with massive road works and diversions.
LONG LIVE SALIK & TRAFFIC JAMS - before all this happened, I was a spent thrift with absolutley no savings. Now my routine is go to work, back to home - that's it - no more going out and spending money - I am actually enjoying my stay at home and making money (read saving). I suppose, you should go out, only if it is absolutley necessary - otherwise read books, surf and watch soaps or reality shows !!!
wacky
Thanks for your advise.
Money saved is money earned!
Specially in this place.
And we do our bit to reduce carbon emission.
why don't you all put your heads down and die ?
That way you won't spend any more money at all !
cretins and liars?? Much too strong, you sound like you have post-holiday blues without the cushioning of enjoyable Friday brunches at five star hotels. Agree about Salik, but if the same comments were made about your country by a foreigner, am pretty sure you would be upset. Sadly, not one of your finest hours SD.
All parts of the world are governed by lecherous crooks! Here in Florida they add ramps to roads and special toll lanes which result in people paying more money to drive slower than ever....!!!!
Anonymous said...
"Hmmmm Marian, does Islam also say, spit your hate out on everyone who does'nt agree?"
Actually, you'll find the Koran doesn't say spit hate at people who don't agree - it says kill them.
Qur'an:9:5
"So when the sacred months have passed away, then slay the unbelievers wherever you find them, and take them captives and besiege them and lie in wait for them in every ambush, then if they repent and keep up prayer and pay the poor-rate, leave their way free to them; surely Allah is Forgiving, Merciful."
Doh...so this post about RTA turned into a ramadan debate, so why don't we turn Salik off during daylight hours for ramadan :-)
I wish SD would come back...
Obviously she's away, cause all the morons can write whatever they want while SD is not checking the posts.
Anyway, i don't like reading from people called 'magic bus', that the Koran says:
'People who don't agree - kill them.'
It reminds me of 11 September.
NO ONE, but NO ONE, has the right to kill!!!!!!!!!!!
"Anyway, i don't like reading from people called 'magic bus', that the Koran says: 'People who don't agree - kill them.'"
Of course you don't like it, because you live in denial. That's precisely what the Koran says. Deal with it.
If you live your life according to the Qur’ān, my question is this:
Why?
Ask yourself, why do you personally choose to follow the Qur’ān.
(I hope it's not "peer pressure"!)
There is so much good in the Qur’ān, but so much that does not take into account the other valuable cultures in our midst.
In my humble opinion (IMHO) the most moral people amongst us are those that distill the truths from all the great religions of the globe, and apply those principles to their lives.
All I ask is that you question, question, non-stop.
Insh'allah.
Eid Mubarak
To magic bus,
we don't live in denial....
we westerns live in reality,
you idiots still live in the prehistory.
Keep up the good work though, keep blowing up YOURSELVES.
anonymous at 13 October, 2007 15:11
I'm guessing by that comment that you are young, in high school.
This is my challenge to you:
Consider that suicide bombings may be more complex than that.
May I ask you this: before you threw out your random comment, what went through your mind? (Some may say 'your pea-brain', but out of respect for your parents I will say 'your mind'.)
What did you think about?
What did you take into account?
Maybe stick to posting on teen chat sites until you grow up a bit.
'Consider that suicide bombings may be more complex than that.'
Tell that to the thousants of innocent victims they already made, included children.
Empty headed morons.
Thank MagicBus for being an ignorant moron.
FYI i am not a muslim, ramadan wasn't really a fun month for me, but I got to eat during the day and get boozed up at night.
Now onto your misquoting of the Qur'an. Why don't you specify that this verse only applies to those already at war with muslim, historically the Mushriqs (pagans) of Makkah who violated a peace treaty.
Now read also the following verse:
"If one amongst the Pagans ask thee for asylum,grant it to him, so that he may hear the word of Allah; and then escort him to where he can be secure that is because they are men without knowledge."
[Al-Qur'an 9:6]
PIECE OF SHIT YOU ARE, using the same tricks as islamic fundamentalist scholar to spread hate.
Next time we'll play with some out of context quote of the bible to see what can look worse...
Very true!!!!
If we read the bible does'nt it say:
Be aware for the devil, he will ask you to:
Start wars, slaughter people and animals, kill yourselves in my name, and bring me there souls and yours.....
SD-
I'd really like to get in touch with you but I don't know how! I've been reading your blog for several weeks now, and I'm writing a paper on it for school. My real concern is your opinion of the conditions for laborers in Dubai. Is there any way I can ask you a couple of questions?? Thank you!
merfacle - you can contact me on my username here at gmail (no spaces, just secretdubai).
Nice blog! I've added a link to you over at Swerve Left (http://swerveleft.blogspot.com).
We've had plenty of quotes from the Koran but where does it say in connection to Ramadan 'Oh non believers, do not eat in public during the holy month, as the believers are weak and cannot fight the pangs of hunger. If though doest eat you will face a fine and jail time'
Where Where?
No Where....
There is quote that expressly forbids the infidel from tempting true believers. 'And to the infidels in the holiest of month though shall not tempt the faithful lest they shall become weak" and "If though findest those that consume nourishment when others around them fast.. call the Al Ameen service and informest the authorities lest they lead others around them into temptation also"
Couldn;t find anything on take aways though
On Dubai Cares...
Dubai Cares Dubai Cares
But Does Dubai Care about the Indian laborers that have toiled in the desert heat and built this city? Who dont get their salaries on time and live, eat and shit in toilet bowls? Why not?
But Does Dubai Care about the Sri Lankan and Philipino maids that are abused physically, sexually, mentally and and every which way by their employer? When she goes to the police they send her to the employer to abuse her more. Why?
But Does Dubai Care about the young girls that come to work here and are told you be prostitute and nothing else and no passport and no going out??? And she go to police and police give her back to pimp because Police also horny. Why Dubai Not Care?
But Dubai Cares About Education! YES! But why Dubai Not give education to poor balochi child who grandfather here and his father and he born here. But irani local can go to government school but why balochi local cannot? He also local no?
But Why Dubai no Cares About ME???
I expat. Born brought up here. My father work live die here. All here. Why when i have no fee for private school i cant go to to public school?
If Dubai Cares Then Charity Begins at Home.
"Thank MagicBus for being an ignorant moron. PIECE OF SHIT YOU ARE, using the same tricks as islamic fundamentalist scholar to spread hate."
I can see that being confronted with reality is a big problem for you.
"FYI i am not a muslim, ramadan wasn't really a fun month for me, but I got to eat during the day and get boozed up at night."
How fascinating.
I thought SD was gone, but she's not.
That means to me, thats she loves it when people post trash in here, cause she allows it.
This blog is becomming discusting.
Bystander said..
Coming back to Salik, I find that even after shelling out the Dhs.4 for crossing every toll station, there are still jams all the way from Garhoud bridge to Al Mullah. Wasn't the Toll road meant to give a traffic-free passageway for toll payers? Seems to me that there are more people nowadays willing to pay the toll, but getting nowhere....
Anon @14 October, 2007 11:12
Very good comment, Bravo! Hope things change for the good for all the unfortunate ppl you have mentioned.
Bless you.
Anon @ 15 October, 2007 13:23
They want eveybody to use Salik. I don't think you have to be professor of Math to realise that then you will pay to float in the river of traffic.
Cheers.
Wisdom of concerned Authorites are beyond mere mortals.
i think you have to be pretty fortunate to be run by dubais government. after all, you could have been run by bahrains government, and THAT my friend, spells disaster.
i welcome a hundred saliks over these fools any day of the year
although yes, i feel your frustration. too much traffic, youre being made to pay for it, and theres still no real improvement. sigh.
I’m not a Muslim nor an infidel and whist I totally agree with free speech there is far too much hatred on this post, we are supposed to be talking about Salik and the RTA, yes the government here make silly mistakes, yes the rents here suck and yes we don’t get paid enough for working here but let’s have a look at the alternative, I could take my family back to the UK where the kids can’t go out to play because it’s not safe, I can’t afford to drive my car because of the road tax and high petrol costs and even if I could I would spend most of the day in traffic on the M25, I would have the right to eat and drink and smoke all year round but then I wouldn't have shorter working hours for one month + all the extra holidays we get out here, every day I would get up and complain about the weather, turn on the news and hear all about the crime that took place over night, I would work like a dog from morning till night and when I get paid see 40% go to the government for them to squander away on some useless idea, so yes Dubai has it problems and yes Islam has its problems but I’m sure if you look at it with open eyes you’ll see that the problems are much less than that of our home countries..Yes Islam has its fanatics which are the people making all the problems, doesn’t the west have priests that molester children?
If democracy is so great then look at the crime rate in every democratic society, look at the taxation system in every democratic society, do we really want America’s values here in Dubai?
Yes we love the freedom of alcohol, and it’s here..as for prostitution and drugs well name a democratic country that doesn’t have the same if not bigger problem than here.
What I will agree with the masses on this site highlight is the plight of human rights across the Middle East, now that’s something that does need fixing.
As somebody already said…if you don’t like it you don’t have to stay…and for those of you that don’t live here and put in your 10pence worth, you would probably be more constructive on your local towns / cities / state / country blog…
So fire away with all your power but don’t get personal..be contructive!!
A last word to 'magic bus' and the other extreem moslims:
Listen to these words and watch it TILL THE END:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Utsl2YeADZk
Anon at 17/10 0945. Agree that Secret's liars and cretins comments were OTT - but two wrongs don'' make a right. Just cos the UK or India suck doesnt make what happens here right. Lets face it. If it wasnt for the money none of us would be here. We're all prostitutes and as is the case in most of these types of relationships its a matter of opinion as to who is exploiting whom. Ask the locals and they'll probably tell you are taking advantage of their hospitality...
BTW You Tube is blocked tonight...
Access Denied (license_expired)
"A license has expired on the Proxy, and your request is not permitted: "The SGOS license has expired"
A new license must be obtained.
For assistance, contact Customer Support."
Sorry if this off the Salik topic but what you muslims & other blind believers need is Richard Dawkins.
www.richarddawkins.net
what do you mean by bur dubai is being run by cretins?who has given you the right or authority to say that..?
Can i just say that u dont know what ur talking abt ?
Liars and Cretins ? huh ?
Whom do u mean the ppl ur talking abt ?
easily u hate these ppl .. Go 2 ur Country as easy as u came her !
would u like anyone talks abt ur country 2 say like this words ?
Feel it ..
every body said salik slaik salik!
these are the rules of the city.. if you don't like Salik you can use other ways!!
other thing.. if you want to live this country follow the rules.. if you don't you can leave and go back to your Home!!
what happend to you guys!.. the country gives you the place to live.. the place to work and you can find here what you cannt found at your country.. and now you are saying these bullshits about our country?? and for what?? 4dh only??
go back to your home if you don't like to pay 4DH for Salik!!
btw.. 4DH are nothing.. some countries charges more than 20dh.. and no boday talk
here in dubai locals didn't talk.. and u r talking now !!..
every body said salik slaik salik!
these are the rules of the city.. if you don't like Salik you can use other ways!!
other thing.. if you want to live this country follow the rules.. if you don't you can leave and go back to your Home!!
what happend to you guys!.. the country gives you the place to live.. the place to work and you can find here what you cannt found at your country.. and now you are saying these bullshits about our country?? and for what?? 4dh only??
go back to your home if you don't like to pay 4DH for Salik!!
btw.. 4DH are nothing.. some countries charges more than 20dh.. and no boday talk
here in dubai locals didn't talk.. and u r talking now !!..
Dubai is currently being run by a combination of liars and cretins.
Dear SD & SD Diary Readers,
What u r saying about salik is true, if u meantthat they r incompetent. The RTA is an official pick-pocket unfortunately not headed by Al Tayer but by Meitha Bin Adi.
To add also to ur knowledge ther will be more toll gates in Dubai.
P.S.
Dear fellow locals don't be so harsh on SD and the non-local readers bcz it shows how low they r when they live in a peaceful country, that they will never find in they hometowns.
best rgrds
a local live and brought up in the uae
and by the way *******local living in uae******* why the fuck is it when you refer to your nationality you say local are you trying to sell fruits or vegetables why the heck cant you say emirati or im fom the uae lol and also i guess your so ignorant about the salik debate coz i guess you were born with a golden spoon in your mouth coz maybe you turned out to have all this money from promising people that they will get their credit after they finish their work and you dont end up giving it thats why you dont have to pay for salik anyway i mean there wouldnt be anuy dubai if it werent for those expats who invested in the city
"a combination of liars and cretins" - fair comment; but then somehow we manage to elect over 600 of them in the UK, every four years or so, to govern over us, line their pockets, break every promise they ever made (if the ever bothered to make any) and generally drag the 'mother of all parliaments' into general disrepute. Where do we manage to find them all? Does this make us some kind of global leader to which the likes of the UAE might aspire?
Salik? I give you the Congestion Charge? Would that either of them actually worked. Far more interesting will be the legislative moves to ensure people populate the Dubai Metro. What, you thought they would spend and let it run empty? What excuse then the 50% of people who don't keep their appointments?
Mariam, I have always fantasized about sexy local women with their strong perfumes and black dresses......like most expat men do ;-)
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