The United Arab Emirates strictly takes actions against those that oppose its policies. The government action involves arrests, summonses, and deportations. These moves are the major cause that people are not freely able to discuss their views. Furthermore, with the passage of time, these oppressive measures increase day by day. It is also alarming that the nation’s long history of restricting freedom is still continuing.
After formalizing relations with Israel in 2020, the UAE also silenced the voices of many critics that protest against Israel. This censorship has only worsened since October 7, 2023, when Israel began its genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.
Many citizens of UAE and also foreign residents have faced severe criticism due to their opposition to Israel’s action. Recently many of them were arrested just because they post on different social media platforms. These individuals have been accused of incitement or attempting to destabilize internal security by calling for a boycott of Israeli products and showing support for Palestinians.
One of the examples involve the case of “K.H.,” a Jordanian of Palestinian descent. He shared his experience. He is a worker in Dubai’s company and once condemned Israel’s actions in Gaza. Due to posting against Israel on Facebook, he was called in for questioning by the State Security Service in Abu Dhabi on April 10, 2024. Furthermore, this person was detained for 3 days and expelled from the United Arab Emirates without legal representation.
This case clearly highlights the intolerance of the United Arab Emirates towards people who raise their voice on sensitive issues. Also raising concerns about freedom of expression and the right to support humanitarian causes.
Furthermore, an Egyptian man also faced severe criticism in the United Arab Emirates. The only wish of this person to stay anonymous for his safety was questioned by UAE security on March 25. This is because he posted on social media platforms and criticized Arab and Islamic countries for not doing enough during the famine in Gaza during Ramadan and calling for an end to normalizing relations with Israel.
According to him, after the inquiry he had lost his job and was also expelled from the UAE. Also the government does not allow him to challenge this decision or get legal help.
There are many cases like this in the UAE. This nation has a history of illegally detaining foreigners and treating them badly. Also this nation tortures its citizens without any legal reason.
Additionally, UAE security has reportedly been threatening teachers and students in universities, warning them not to protest against Israel. This situation is very troubling and needs attention.
Authorities recently summoned professors, community members, and activists, warning them against pro-Gaza events and criticizing Israel. Activist Mansour Al-Ahmadi was arrested on November 19, 2023, and his fate remains unknown. He has been denied legal protections and representation. Previously detained in 2012, Al-Ahmadi’s treatment raises serious concerns about justice and human rights in our country.
The State Security of the UAE is on the top of the list for violating human rights. They torture people, make arbitary arrest and restrict free speech. Citizens of this nation are not allowed to raise their voice and show their opinions. Critics of the government often face terrible conditions in detention.
The “UAE 84” case is also one of the examples to consider. This involves a mass trial of activists and human rights advocates who signed a petition over a decade ago for constitutional changes. Furthermore, during the time of COP28 this nation retired 84 people who had already served their sentences, detaining them unlawfully.
The authorities claimed on January 6, 2024 that these activists were involved in the terrorism action. They cited the Emirati Anti-Terrorism Law of 2014, which imposes severe penalties, including life imprisonment and the death penalty, for such activities.
The United Arab Emirates has a long history of torturing people and silencing their voice to speech freely. Human rights organizations keep silent and don’t address these issues. It is important for the United Arab Emirates government to take strict actions and end these intimidations. People should have the right to talk freely and express their opinions.
It is also important for the UAE government to respect free speech, human rights and peaceful protests. The government should not prosecute individuals for their views. Also repeal laws that violate human rights, including the 2014 Anti-Terrorism Law.