Visitors explore Louvre Abu Dhabi on Saadiyat Island. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
Visitors explore Louvre Abu Dhabi on Saadiyat Island. Khushnum Bhandari / The National
The National
Our readers have their say on the stories of the week
June 19, 2026
Write to us: Share your feedback on the news of the week
Boosting UAE tourism
I write in reference to Nick Webster’s article Free UAE medical travel insurance is expected to boost tourism as peace hopes rise (June 16): The initiative is likely to enhance travellers' confidence and encourage more visitors to choose the UAE as a destination. With growing optimism surrounding peace efforts and hopes for a lasting resolution to regional tensions, the tourism sector is expected to benefit from increased international arrivals. This development could provide a significant boost to the UAE's tourism industry by creating a safer and more attractive environment for travellers. – K Ragavan, Bengaluru, India
Strait talking
I write in reference to your article UAE aims to cut dependency on Strait of Hormuz to 'zero' with major ports expansion plan (June 17): Strategic independence is the best defense. No nation should have the power to hold global trade hostage. True security lies in self-reliance, not in dependence on routes controlled by others. This measure will ensure that no country can weaponise tomorrow’s trade routes. - Swagata Roy Dc, address withheld upon request
DNA of peace
I write in reference to your video Trump and UAE President exchange compliments at G7 (June 17): At this crunch time, my prayer is that God illuminates all the world’s leaders to ease all tensions and bring sustainable peace throughout the globe. The UAE is among the guests at this G7 summit because this nation has to play a prominent role in the global peace process and economic stability. Wisdom, respect and love constitute its leadership’s DNA. If global leaders adopt such virtues, peace will come back. - Seraphin Pelenda, address withheld upon request
Freedom fighters
I write in reference to Steve Luckings’s article UFC Freedom 250: Gaethje wins title in Trump's White House spectacle (June 15): A national commemoration should focus on civic reflection, education, service and gratitude, not on creating opportunities for private organisations, sponsors or political interests to profit from a public milestone. Americans deserve transparency about who is funding these events, who is benefiting financially, and how public resources are being used. - Joann Small, US
World Cup 2026
I write in reference to your video Jordanian fans form convoy to support team in California (June 17): Let people celebrate their nations, unity and countries. This is what football is all about. Good luck Jordan and Jordanians in America. - Zayna AlHamarneh, Jordan
I write in reference to your video Iraq’s Ahmed Qasem: “Underdogs can win” (June 12): From a West Virginian living in England now, I wish you and the entire Iraqi team good luck! It's lovely to see the hills of my home state behind you as you speak! Go the Lions of Mesopotamia! - Marci Merrifield Tapping, UK
Updated:
June 19, 2026, 3:00 AM
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