A British tourist arrested after filming missiles hitting Dubai is facing two years in prison after being charged with a cybercrime.
The 60-year-old Londoner, who was detained on Monday night, March 9, is said to have deleted the video immediately when asked, and insisted that he did not mean to break the law.
However, he has been charged alongside 20 others over videos and social media posts relating to recent Iranian missile strikes on the UAE, according to campaign group Detained in Dubai.
The official allegation relates to ‘broadcasting, publishing, republishing or circulating rumours or provocative propaganda that could disturb public security’. The offence carries a maximum sentence of two years in prison.
Following his arrest, the British tourist was kept at Bur Dubai police station.
Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai, said: ‘Under UAE cybercrime laws, one post can lead to many arrests. Anyone who shares, reposts, or comments on the same content can face the same charges and be named on the same charge sheet.
‘The charges are vague and broad, but serious nonetheless. Those charged could face lengthy prison sentences.
‘Residents could also be detained under national security laws, held indefinitely, denied access to their embassy, and be subjected to human rights abuses. In times of tension, extreme caution is advised.’
Dubai’s government heavily polices social media and responded to the outbreak of war by threatening jail against anyone sharing information that ‘results in inciting panic among people’.
Videos of drone and missile strikes were regularly shared on social media in the early days of the conflict, but have reportedly disappeared and been replaced by a deluge of posts praising Dubai’s government.
The emirate has been targeted by constant Iranian missile and drone attacks as the regime strikes US allies in the Middle East.
Dubai was hit by a fresh wave of drone attacks today, with a fire breaking out at a hotel in Creek Harbour in the early hours of the morning. Around noon, a building on the Sheikh Zayed Road was hit, followed by a further incident in the Al Bada district.
There are strict laws about criticising or insulting the UAE government or causing ‘reputational harm’ to the country, which can result in fines of up to £200,000, or up to five years in prison, and possibly deportation.
