An 18-year-old British man, Marcus Fakana, from Tottenham, north London, is set to stand trial in Dubai on December 9, after being accused of having a sexual relationship with a 17-year-old British girl while both were on holiday with their families.

The case emerged after the girl’s mother, acting as her legal guardian, reported the relationship to Dubai authorities upon discovering messages and photos on her daughter’s phone after their return to the UK. Under UAE law, the girl, who has since turned 18, is classified as a minor, leading to charges against Fakana.

Details of the Case

The pair reportedly began a holiday romance in September while visiting Dubai. Fakana was arrested at his hotel after the complaint was filed. The Dubai government confirmed that the charges were filed under laws protecting minors and emphasized that the trial would be conducted impartially.

A statement from Dubai’s public prosecution said: “Dubai’s legal system is committed to protecting the rights of all individuals and ensuring impartial judicial proceedings.” The trial date was set at the request of Fakana’s legal counsel.

Reactions from Advocacy Groups

Radha Stirling, the founder of Detained in Dubai, a UK-based organization assisting foreigners with legal troubles in the UAE, described the case as “unique” due to the small age gap between the two individuals. She said: “This is clearly just a case of two older teenagers, both of them now the same age, who have been caught up because a mother reported the behaviour.”

Stirling highlighted the emotional distress the situation has caused Fakana and his family, stating: “Marcus and his parents are extremely distressed. They are devastated by the circumstances and the possibility of a harsh sentence for what is essentially a teenage relationship.”

Family Pleads for Resolution

Fakana’s parents, who initially travelled to Dubai, have since returned to London, leaving their son to face the charges alone. Fakana, speaking from detention, expressed his anguish: “I pray this nightmare will be over and I’ll be home for Christmas.”

UK Government Involvement

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) has confirmed its support for Fakana. A spokesperson said: “We are supporting a British man in the UAE and are in contact with his family.”

Broader Implications

The case has highlighted the importance of understanding local laws when travelling abroad, particularly in the UAE, where legal systems differ significantly from those in the UK. Dubai remains a popular destination for British tourists, but incidents like this underscore the need for travellers to be mindful of cultural and legal sensitivities.

Fakana’s trial is expected to draw significant attention, with advocacy groups calling for leniency, emphasizing the minor age difference and the consensual nature of the relationship.