A British teenager, Marcus Fakana from Tottenham, has been released from al-Awir prison in Dubai and safely returned to the UK following a royal pardon from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al‑Maktoum. Fakana, 19, had been sentenced to one year in jail after being convicted of having consensual sex with a 17‑year‑old during a holiday in the UAE—a crime under Emirati law, which sets the age of consent at 18.
His release was granted under an “Eid pardon”—a customary amnesty during a major Islamic holiday. Campaign group Detained in Dubai, which supported his case, called the sentence “excessive” and applauded the pardon, stating Fakana “should never have been put through this.” The Foreign Office confirmed it provided support throughout the ordeal and respected his wish for a low-profile return.
Fakana is now recovering in London and plans to spend time privately before sharing his experience. His case has reignited discussions about the legal risks British tourists may face abroad and the importance of consular assistance.
