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Campaign group demands stronger UK action for detained Britons
A advocacy organization has criticized the UK government for not doing enough to assist British nationals charged in the United Arab Emirates after filming Iranian missile attacks.
Detentions under cyber-crime laws
Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai, told the BBC she is representing four UK citizens held in the UAE and is aware of a fifth case. The detentions follow charges against a 60-year-old British man last month for allegedly recording Iranian missiles over Dubai under the country's cyber-crime laws.
The UK Foreign Office confirmed it is providing consular support to "a small number of British nationals" detained in the UAE and said its ambassador is engaging with Emirati authorities about the cases.
Concerns over consular assistance
Stirling described the UK's response as "disgraceful," noting some detainees avoid seeking consular help due to a lack of confidence in the support offered. Instead, they turn to lawyers, family, or local contacts with influence.
"They might call a lawyer or call their family member, [or] call someone they know in the Emirates who's got a bit of influence. They'd rather ask them to help than the embassy."
Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai
She reported receiving daily notifications of new detentions, with "dozens" of cases currently unresolved. Some detainees face prosecution, while others remain in custody without formal charges.
Calls for faster processing and leniency
Stirling argued the UK lags behind other nations in diplomatic pressure, citing France as an example of more effective intervention. She claimed French nationals detained under similar circumstances were released more quickly than Britons.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Stirling urged Dubai to "process foreigners in detention for cybercrime violations as quickly as possible," suggesting small fines as an alternative to prolonged detention for those who "meant no harm."
UAE's stance and legal framework
The UAE's cyber-crime laws prohibit photographing, sharing, or posting images of missile or drone strike sites. The UK embassy in the UAE previously warned British nationals that violations could result in fines, imprisonment, or deportation.
Lana Nusseibeh, the UAE's minister of state to the EU, told the BBC the legislation aims to ensure public safety. However, human rights groups like Amnesty International have criticized the UAE for criminalizing freedom of expression and targeting government critics.
Regional tensions and attacks
The UAE, a hub for foreign investment and tourism, has faced repeated Iranian attacks amid escalating Middle East conflicts. Following joint US-Israeli strikes on Iranian infrastructure, Iran has targeted US-allied nations, including American military bases and energy sites in the Gulf.
Iconic UAE landmarks, such as the Fairmont The Palm hotel and Burj Al Arab, have sustained damage in recent attacks.
