A man from Belfast is facing a two-year prison sentence in Dubai for posting a negative review of a dog grooming business from his home country. Craig Ballentine, 33, had worked in a canine salon in Dubai for nearly six months before being diagnosed with fibromyalgia and needing time off work. Despite informing his employer and providing a doctor’s note, he was reported as “absconded” and faced a travel ban on his passport, making it difficult for him to return home to Northern Ireland.
Upon returning home, Craig left a Google review detailing the problems caused by his former boss and the grooming center. However, during a short holiday in Abu Dhabi, he was transported to Dubai to face charges of slander under the UAE’s strict cybercrime laws. Now stuck in the country, Craig is unable to work as an autism support worker and is at risk of imprisonment.
Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai, expressed concerns about the UAE’s cybercrime laws, which allow for individuals to be arrested for complaints or negative reviews. Despite deleting the post and apologizing, Craig still faces the prospect of jail time. Stirling highlighted the power dynamics that favor complainants and the potential for extortion through criminal and civil cases.
The situation has left Craig’s family distressed, with his mother fearing the worst. As a dedicated volunteer in his community, Craig is eager to return home and resume his work. Stirling called for diplomatic interventions to secure Craig’s release and prevent similar incidents in the future.
The case sheds light on the risks faced by foreigners in countries with stringent cybercrime laws and the need for greater protections for individuals expressing their opinions online. As Craig awaits a resolution, efforts are being made to secure his safe return home and address the broader implications of such legal challenges for visitors in the UAE.
