SOME years ago I visited Dubai on business. I left my five-star hotel early morning on a long trip and returned in the evening.

I asked for the key to my room, 911 and after a couple of security questions they gave me the key for Room 711. I pointed out the error to the desk clerk who searched the computer frantically and was adamant I was in 711. I was sure that I was not, so called for the duty manager.

At this point the manager told me that Mubarak was visiting Dubai, with his entourage of security people and they had taken the whole of the ninth floor (and probably the eighth floor as well!).

They had moved me, without telling me, two floors down.

He assured me the rooms were identical and that all my belongings had been transferred securely.

They had too – everything was in the same position as it was when I left early morning. They must have used a camera to record the exact position of every personal item.

Am I sorry to see Mubarek leave? Not really. I’ve related this tale to many Egyptians who say this was typical of the way he worked.

RH Redwood, Main Street, Askham Bryan, York.