UAE Cybercrime Crackdown Escalates Following Iran War in the Gulf - By Radha Stirling, Expert Witness, Crisis Manager and Founder of Detained in Dubai.  29 March 2026

war-torn Dubai: The glittering tax-free influencer fantasy is unravelling as expats are arrested and treated as criminals for simply taking a photo of drone damage and sending to worried relatives

The arrests come amid a wider crackdown in the United Arab Emirates on the sharing of images or videos related to the recent drone and missile attacks targeting the country. The crackdown can be confusing for residents who can already see photos and videos of the attacks widely published across mainstream and social media. Authorities have warned that circulating such content could lead to prosecution under the country’s cybercrime laws.

Detained in Dubai has announced that 21 people have been charged together under the UAE's cybercrime laws.  Its CEO warns even sharing or commenting on circulating videos or news could lead to jail, fines and deportation.

If you are currently in the UAE: • Avoid posting commentary about the conflict or regional politics • Do not share unverified footage or security related images • Refrain from filming government or military locations • Exercise extreme caution in private messaging apps

Rising Use of UAE Laws by Ex-Spouses to Target Partners

The UK is mirroring the UAE's draconian cybercrime laws and putting every foreign visitor to England at risk

British citizen Chris Emms remains effectively exiled under an Interpol Red Notice, still facing charges under the same legal theory, despite never being a U.S. person, having no ties to the United States, and playing no role involving U.S. entities or jurisdiction.

Human rights and legal organisation, Detained in Dubai, has saved countless lives over its 17 years of service. 

Chris Emms is fighting back against the hubris and belligerence of America's assumption of global legal jurisdiction