Teen jailed in Dubai over sex with girl, 17, freed

Marcus Fakana, a 19-year-old British national, has returned home after being released from a Dubai prison where he served six months for having a consensual relationship with a 17-year-old girl. Under UAE law, the age of consent is set at 18, leading to his one-year sentence after the girl's mother reported their relationship. Fakana received a royal pardon from Dubai's ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, which enabled his early release. Radha Stirling from Detained in Dubai noted that Fakana was nervous but relieved to reunite with his family. She criticized the law as overly strict, suggesting that it should not apply to tourists unaware of local regulations.

The Foreign and Commonwealth and Development Office supported Fakana during his imprisonment and highlighted the need for awareness of local laws among travelers. The UAE government's statement emphasized its commitment to protecting minors and ensuring fair judicial proceedings. This case underscores the potential legal pitfalls for tourists engaging in behavior that is acceptable in their home countries.