A 60-year-old British Londoner detained in Dubai has now been released amid the Middle East crisis.
Dubai decision for UK tourists brings ‘enormous relief’ but ‘remains concerning’
UK tourists in Dubai have been issued a major update which will be “enormous relief” – even if the situation remains “deeply concerning”. A 60-year-old British Londoner detained in Dubai has now been released amid the Middle East crisis.
“We’re thrilled to announce that one of the first people we assisted during the UAE cybercrime crackdown has been freed,” said Radha Stirling, from Detained in Dubai.
The man, from London, was among 20 arrested for taking PHOTOGRAPHS of the Iranian strikes in the United Arab Emirates. Radha added: “After weeks of uncertainty, this will come as enormous relief to those affected.
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“The ordeal has been distressing and financially draining, with serious consequences for those caught up in these cases.
“This was one of several cases raised with UK authorities following sustained diplomatic efforts.
“Others remain behind bars, and new cases continue to emerge, including arrests over something as simple as taking photographs on the beach.
“The wider situation remains deeply concerning.” According to the official case summary, those accused are alleged to have used an information network or information technology tool to broadcast, publish, republish or circulate false news, rumours or provocative propaganda that may incite public opinion or disturb public security.
Penalties in such cases can include up to two years in prison, fines ranging from AED 20,000 to AED 200,000, or both, and foreign nationals will also face deportation.
Stirling previously warned that the risk is compounded because multiple counts can be applied.
It means a person who reposts several clips or articles could theoretically face cumulative charges and multiple sentences, even where the actions were entirely innocent.
In an update on Sunday, Iran’s parliamentary speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, said the US delegation “failed to gain the trust of the Iranian delegation in this round of negotiations”.
In a lengthy post on X, the speaker said he stressed before the talks yesterday that Iran had no “trust in the opposing side” after “the experiences of the two previous wars”.