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

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.

Detained in Dubai urges governments to intervene so foreign nationals can leave the region with their families

“People Are Fleeing Dubai Leaving Their Dogs Behind” Radha Stirling

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

John Murphy, stuck in the UAE, homeless and sheltering in a Carrefour car park during the attacks

The dismissal of Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, long-time chairman and chief executive of DP World, has been described as “the tip of the iceberg” by Radha Stirling, founder of Detained in Dubai and a recognised UAE country expert witness.

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

James Hutchinson has been told he won't be a free man until he pays thousands of pounds in compensation to the family of a cyclist he...