An 18-year-old British tourist is facing potential jail time in Dubai after engaging in a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old London girl he met while on holiday. Marcus Fakana was arrested and charged after the girl’s mother discovered their communication and reported it to Dubai authorities.
Dubai enforces a strict age of consent of 18. Although the girl has since turned 18, their relationship occurred while she was still considered a minor under UAE law. Media reports suggest that the teenager could face up to 20 years in prison.
Fakana was on holiday with his family in the UAE when he met the girl. “We really liked each other, but she was secretive with her family because they were strict,” Fakana told Detained in Dubai. “My parents knew about our relationship, but she couldn’t tell hers. She had to meet me without telling them it was to see a boy.”
The girl returned to the UK, and both parties hoped to continue their relationship in their home country. However, her mother discovered their communications and contacted authorities in Dubai.
Dubai police subsequently arrested Fakana at his family’s hotel, holding him for three days without permitting contact with his family.
“The girl was just a few months younger than Marcus, and he didn’t know that at the time. Since his arrest, she has turned 18, and Marcus would not be facing 20 years in jail,” said Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai, a group that assists individuals facing legal issues in the UAE, according to a Sky News report. “This is not something Dubai should be prosecuting.”
Dubai Public Prosecution said, “Under UAE law, the girl is legally classified as a minor, and in accordance with procedures recognized internationally, her mother—being the legal guardian—filed the complaint. Dubai’s legal system is committed to protecting the rights of all individuals and ensuring impartial judicial proceedings.”
Currently, Fakana is not in police custody but is prohibited from leaving Dubai. He said his family is spending £2,000 on Airbnbs until his case is resolved.
Fakana and his family are also requesting assistance from British authorities, including their MP and the Foreign Office. Fakana’s family is incurring significant expenses while awaiting the resolution of his case.
The UK Foreign Office confirmed they are providing support to Fakana and are in communication with his family, according to the Sky News report.