@wits-end - it's nice that you prefer that you prefer that Magnus be "honest." It doesn't deny the fact that it's not good for chess, has to upset the sponsors, probably doesn't ingratiate himself to his hosts, and doesn't put chess in a good light. He should make half an effort just for the sake of the game.
I'm sure that many of their Arab hosts are very offended. It's *super* important that when you are the guest of an Arab that you show that you are warm, welcoming, and thankful to be there. It's expected that you compliment people, compliment their "home," and take notice of the effort people have taken. As I said, this stuff isn't hard. It's not hard to smile. It's not hard to thank people. It's not hard to say nice things. His behavior is frankly, kind of embarrassing.
I certainly can’t speak for the Arab hosts or Arab culture and their social mores. I’ll have to trust your thoughts on the topic as you may have more knowledge about this than i do. I would say that the hosts are certainly intelligent enough to realize that Magnus was answering a stupid question about commentators, not how nice the venue is, the accommodations, food, or how gracious the Dubai community is for holding this event. Maybe I’ve missed it, but i haven’t heard him or anyone showing disrespect for anything other than the one holding the microphone. (The reporter who has had weeks, perhaps months to come up with a question germane to either the event itself or even how gracious the host has been.)
I don’t see a win in this debate, we clearly hold different opinions. Care for a draw? All with good intention.
@nikki: I agree with you, but the example you provided is like saying nothing. I'd try to be witty and self-deprecating like Grischuk for example, although that's not for everyone perhaps.