Cliff Notes
- Marcus Fakana, an 18-year-old British teenager, has been released from a Dubai jail after receiving a royal pardon from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum.
- His case has drawn public attention, highlighting concerns about the treatment of tourists and the need for expedited legal processes for foreign nationals in the UAE.
- The legal complications arose from a relationship with a 17-year-old girl, reported by her mother, with the age of consent in Dubai set at 18.
British teenager released from Dubai jail after royal pardon | World News
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A British teenager sentenced to one year in a Dubai jail for having a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old girl has been released after receiving a royal pardon, a campaign group has said.
Marcus Fakana, 18, of Tottenham, north London, received the pardon from Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum and is safely in the UK, Detained In Dubai said.
The group’s chief executive Radha Stirling said Mr Fakana “is currently recovering”.
She added: “His case has attracted significant public attention due to concerns about the criminalisation of tourists and disproportionate sentencing.
“We believe this case highlights the urgent need for expedited legal processes for foreign nationals and safeguards against unnecessary custodial sentences.”
Mr Fakana was with his parents in the United Arab Emirates when a “holiday romance blossomed” with another Londoner, who has since turned 18, the campaign group previously said.
He was arrested at his hotel last year after the girl’s mother reported the relationship to Dubai police after she allegedly found their pictures and chats.
In Dubai, the age of consent is 18.