when is a speed limit not a speed limit?

In most places where I have lived or driven the speed limit sign on the side of the highway is the speed that, if exceeded, will ensure you get a speeding fine. In some places there is a small allowance for error, say 10%, but not always. The net result of this is that most folks drive at the "advertised" limit, or below.

In the UAE its an unwritten rule, or at least it was until today, that whilst the sign may say 120 the cameras are actually set at 140 or even 160 in some places. A pretty big buffer I think.

[source: kudufm]

Going one step further now, according to The National today, the police will now install two sets of signs on major roads AND additional markings on the road itself indicating clearly when this limit or buffer has changed - on the border between Dubai and Abu Dhabi on SZR for example.

"The new information for drivers, along with smart technology, increased patrols and speed limits adjusted for road contexts and conditions, are all intended to combat speeding"

traffic police say

Uh, if I know the actual speed limit is 140 why would I drive 120? Go figure.

Jamie's italian

I'm sure you have been waiting with bated breath for my report back on my meal at Jamie's Italian in Festival City. So without further ado, here it is.

books, art and Jamie

Yes I have been a bit scarce I know. We just had a lovely vacation in Switzerland, and I have also been studying for an exam that keeps being postponed (most annoying) and also organising, with my partner, a "Come Wine and Dine with me" evening for my wine club. So really all go, but no excuse. So without further ado a couple of things that caught my interest for the month.

The third Emirates Airline Festival of Literature opens tonight - in fact the festival is being opened by Michael Palin, British comedian and author, and one of the crazy Monty Python gang (still one of my favourite shows I must say). Unfortunately by the time we realised it was all happening we had lost out (again) as all the workshops we wanted to attend are now fully booked. The festival is made up of 130 events overall including 20 workshops and the opening, and is definately growing in popularity here in Dubai. If you are lucky enough to be attending one of the workshops please let me know how you get on. The festival runs until Saturday.

[from www.clker.com]