Angry SandPig - spot on.
I do believe that "CoryM" thread is that of the former GAL CEO. Despite what a lot of people say about him, without him and the Brit that was the first ATS Director, they laid the foundation for a very successful organization, based on ICAO standards and western organization principles. His description of the GAL senior management structure is correct. His description of the current ATS Director is also absolutely correct. From the start - safety and compliance has always been at the forefront of the company's efforts in upgrading capabilities. The local "culture" has continually stymied any significant achievements in these areas. Then GAL senior management - through various "professional" relationships acquired permission to enter into the civil atc world. Despite the tireless efforts by Safety, Compliance, and Standards - their attempts have continuously blocked or ignored by the ATS PM and the GM.
Talking with pilots over coffee a bad thing? Depends on your perspective. If pilots were allowed to visit the atc facilities on occasion it would allow them to observe and foster a working relationship, much like the much adorned flight deck familiarization rides we used to be allowed to take advantage of which gave you the controller the realtime services to observe and flight crew reactions. Of course you will get a pilot or two who will complain regardless. Controllers do the same. Why can't atc have a program like this here in the UAE? La La - its a security issue or (even better) its secret.
If the travelling public or international safety organizations were aware of the seriousness of how badly the air transportation system really is here in the UAE is - there would be an uprising.
SAFETY SAFETY SAFETY
Pilots make mistakes
Controllers make mistakes
The goal is to reduce the number of mistakes made and to continually improve the system in which we operate. ICAO has, the FAA has, so why can't you do it here in the UAE?
You can buy all the most modern and advanced equipment in the world (which you have done) but the human element will always be the responsible and accountable function. The working controllers need to be reminded that you have an awesome responsibility and management has the highest degree of integrity in ensuring that they provide support of all levels of atc operations and to maintain an open communications without bias or prejudice to content or fault.
Check your attitudes, ego, and culture when you sit down in position. Lives depend on it.