Ben Keith on BBC Radio 5 Live: Risks Facing Foreign Nationals Charged Under Dubai Cybercrime Laws

Ben Keith, co-founder of International Human Rights Advisors, appeared on BBC Radio 5 Live on 13 March 2026 following reports that a British man had been charged under cybercrime laws in Dubai after allegedly filming Iranian missiles over the city.

During the interview, Keith warned of the serious risks individuals can face when prosecuted under the UAE’s cybercrime legislation.

“There is a serious risk that they will be detained and unfortunately will be tortured.”

Keith has represented numerous foreign nationals facing prosecution in Dubai and elsewhere in the United Arab Emirates, including cases linked to online activity, speech, and social media posts. Many of these cases involve conduct that would ordinarily be regarded as an exercise of freedom of expression in other jurisdictions.

In his comments, Keith noted that the legal system in Dubai offers limited safeguards for defendants charged under cybercrime laws. Convictions are often viewed as highly likely once charges are brought, raising significant concerns about due process and the fairness of proceedings.

The case highlights the gap that can exist between Dubai’s international image and the realities of its legal framework. Foreign nationals living in or travelling through the UAE can find themselves facing severe criminal penalties for actions that may appear routine elsewhere.

International Human Rights Advisors regularly assists individuals navigating complex cross-border legal challenges, including cases involving detention, financial crime allegations, and restrictions on freedom of expression in the United Arab Emirates.

Ben Keith is an international human rights and extradition barrister at 5 St Andrew’s Hill Chambers in London. He is widely recognised for his expertise in cross-border cases, political extraditions, and cases involving human rights violations, sanctions, and Interpol Red Notices.

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