Mr. Al‑Momani’s last column begs the question as to whether or not he follows world news, or even reads the publication he writes for. While I consider myself fairly inept with regard to world politics, I do give a little attention to headlines.
Mr. Al‑Momani eloquently articulates on behalf of the establishment of an Arabic major, citing the plentiful job opportunities in Persian Gulf countries, “especially in Dubai…” Does Mr. Al‑Momani know that as of 1971, Dubai is a city‑state in the country of the United Arab Emirates? In the Herald’s Monday “Briefs,” and in a syndicated column in Thursday’s paper, Dubai seems to be in serious trouble. Dubai World, a massive company and huge presence in Dubai that, according to its Web site, “operates a highly diversified spectrum of industrial segments and plays a major role in the emirate’s rapid economic growth,” appears to be poised to default on billions of dollars in international loans.
According to the CIA World Fact Book, Dubai relies heavily on an expatriate workforce, much of which is presumably employed in, “the group’s investment arm that has a global footprint in finance, capital, leisure, aviation and various other business ventures.” Although Dubai has gained media spotlight and popularity due to its lavish accoutrements, the events of late indicate that one of the largest economic institutions there has overestimated its ability to garner a profit, despite tax incentives and relaxed tariffs. If I were Mr. Al‑Momani, I would be cautious about recommending employment in Dubai in its current situation.
Jonathon Freye
WMU alumnus
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