With regard to the article “Jawazat officers to don traditional thobes” (Apr. 3), I hope that the change of uniform will also change their attitude! First and foremost they should be trained how to treat people as human beings, to respect everyone independent of gender or race and to learn to work at a speed that actually moves the queues along. After traveling to over 25 countries (some in the Third World), I can say that the welcome you get at Jeddah airport is the worst of all. If you change the cover of a book, it doesn't mean the book itself will be better than before. You have to rewrite it! Alan, Online response II. This is a good move. However, it would be better to also have some orientation for them on how to serve visitors with in a good and timely manner. In that way, Saudi national dress will get more respect. Jim, Online response III. The goal of changing uniforms for national dress is to show a unified look and feel for visitors entering and leaving the country. This will only be successful if the behavior of some officers improves. They must be polite and show hospitality to all who enter the country. This will help to create a positive image and not reinforce the negative image that most people have of immigration officers. Erick, Online response
