Beyond the Instagram Fantasy: The Hidden Dangers for Women in Dubai

The case of Maria Kovalchuk highlights a much deeper issue within Dubai’s justice system and public image.

26 March 2025

"While Dubai police are claiming she “fell”, they are also the same people who claimed Princess Latifa was “safe and happy" in the "loving care of her family” says, Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai. "They also claimed Lee Bradley Brown somehow beat himself to death in police custody.

"The circumstances surrounding Maria Kovalchuk’s battered body must be independently investigated. We can expect to hear all sorts of stories from Dubai’s media office and police but they should not be taken at face value as they have a proven track record of cover ups.