British Teen Jailed in Dubai for Consensual Relationship Freed After Royal Pardon

Marcus Fakana, a 19-year-old from Tottenham, north London, has returned to the UK after spending seven months in a Dubai prison for engaging in a consensual relationship with a fellow British tourist.

Fakana was granted a royal pardon by Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, following a sustained campaign led by human rights group Detained in Dubai. He arrived back in the UK on Thursday, July 3.

The incident occurred in 2024 during a family holiday to the United Arab Emirates, where Marcus met a British girl staying at the same luxury hotel. Although their relationship was consensual and the girl was just one month shy of her 18th birthday, UAE law strictly prohibits sexual activity with anyone under 18.

After returning to the UK, the girl’s mother discovered their messages and reported Marcus to UAE authorities, leading to his arrest and imprisonment.

The case sparked international outrage and renewed criticism of the UAE’s legal system, which criminalizes private relationships and is often accused of disproportionately targeting foreign nationals.

Radha Stirling, CEO of Detained in Dubai, confirmed Marcus’ release from Al Awir Prison came a few weeks after they filed for a royal pardon.

“Marcus should never have been put through this,” Stirling told MailOnline. “He was meant to spend a short holiday with family and ended up spending nearly a year behind bars. We’re thrilled he’s finally home, safe and surrounded by loved ones.”

Stirling praised the combined efforts of legal teams, diplomatic engagement, and public support that led to his release.

“This was an extraordinary young man caught in a deeply unjust system,” she added. “We thank everyone who stood by Marcus and helped bring him home.”

Marcus’ family expressed deep gratitude for the campaign that secured his freedom, calling his return a “miracle” after months of fear and uncertainty.