Dubai arrests British tourist for filming missile strikes

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A British tourist is one of 21 people who have been charged in Dubai under the UAE’s cybercrime law, after allegedly filming missiles targeting the city. The man, who is in his 60s, immediately deleted the footage when asked, according to the Detained in Dubai campaign group. In the UAE, “spreading rumours” that contradict government accounts, especially during moments of crisis, is punishable by up to two years in prison. Human Rights Watch says that the legislation is routinely used to silence anyone “perceived to be critical of the government”. Dubai has been heavily hit by Iranian strikes, eroding its status as a safe haven in a turbulent region. After the initial attacks, the authorities warned against posting content harmful to “national unity”. Since then, social media has been full of Dubai residents conveying messages of calm.

Further reading: Dubai’s influencers say Iranian strikes are nothing to worry about. What’s motivating them?