In Focus | Looking ahead to 2010

Readers' expectations: What lies ahead?

Gulf News readers' sound off on their hope for news, business and sport in 2010

  • Compiled by Manuel Almario, Community Journalist
  • Published: 14:56 December 31, 2009
  • Adel Al Attar, Dubai
    Adel Al Attar, Dubai

    UAE: "Even during the global recession, where every country was facing financial problems, UAE’s leaders were standing together and supporting the community and businesses here. I expect the government to continue their support."

  • Haider Al Zuheiri, Abu Dhabi
    Haider Al Zuheiri, Abu Dhabi

    UAE: "I expect the UAE to further invest in centres for children with special needs and organise an aggressive campaign to promote environmental conservation. I would also expect the postal service to develop into a door-to-door delivery system."

  • Lucy Jane Balls, Abu Dhabi
    Lucy Jane Balls, Abu Dhabi

    UAE: "I expect 2010 in the UAE to be more accommodating to us pedestrians, or foot soldiers! That means more buses, air-conditioned shelters and - if we don’t get those - kind fellow pedestrians."

  • Nadia Al Rayayesa, Sharjah
    Nadia Al Rayayesa, Sharjah

    Region: "In 2010, there may be progress in politics and peace in the region, but permanent peace will not be achieved. However, I am optimistic that there will be some positive developments, too."

  • Jonard Tabing, Dubai
    Jonard Tabing, Dubai

    Region: "I pray and hope that the chess games going on in various parts of the region will come to an end. The pawns are already suffering and sacrificing too much."

  • Ahmad Nawaz, Dubai
    Ahmad Nawaz, Dubai

    Region: "The Israelis are killing Palestinians for no good reason. Israel and the US are spreading hatred and waging war. They should be stopped and peace should prevail."

  • Stephan Melchior, Dubai
    Stephan Melchior, Dubai

    World: "World leaders should spend less time talking and more time working, act on their promises and be consistent."

  • Markus Stebich, Dubai
    Markus Stebich, Dubai

    World: "I hope for more civility, responsibility, thoughtfulness and common sense. The ability to create hope and inspire."

  • Mirza Imran Hanif, Ras Al Khaimah
    Mirza Imran Hanif, Ras Al Khaimah

    World: "I hope for peace between India and Pakistan and more action from Gulf countries to stop Israel from killing innocent people in Palestine."

  • Manish Gupta, Dubai
    Manish Gupta, Dubai

    Business: "I hope 2010 is the year of recovery, with businesses stabilising and showing consistency. Banks should provide loans easily, which will increase liquidity and support the business community."

  • Ramprasad M.S., Dubai
    Ramprasad M.S., Dubai

    Business: "World business leaders need to incorporate methods to further reduce their carbon footprint. We need to adopt methods to give future generations a better, healthy and safe planet."

  • Mary Blackwell, Dubai
    Mary Blackwell, Dubai

    Business: "I am looking forward to another good year in Dubai. Hopefully, prices will stabilise. Things at my work place are improving and I expect a more positive work environment."

  • Syed Mohammad Sajl, Abu Dhabi
    Syed Mohammad Sajl, Abu Dhabi

    Sport: "The expectations in the sporting world are sky-high. Who will lift the FIFA World Cup in South Africa? Who will be T20 Cricket champions in West Indies? And, the tennis world is waiting to find its grand slam champions."

  • Mohammad Babar, Abu Dhabi
    Mohammad Babar, Abu Dhabi

    Sport: "I am very excited as Michael Schumacher will return to the Formula 1 circuit, FIFA World Cup will be held in South Africa and the T20 Cricket World Cup in West Indies. Overall, an excellent year to look forward to!"

  • Prasad Warrier, Dubai
    Prasad Warrier, Dubai

    Sport: "I hope that the sporting world is less dogged by controversies and sportsmen are known more for their achievements than for their exploits outside the porting world."

Gulf News
Readers speak

Trends

H1N1 is out, but going green is going strong. What else is on the radar?