Dubai Custody Battle Sparks Fears for Ex-Wife, Highlights Concerns Over women’s Rights
Dubai, UAE – An escalating custody dispute involving a former wife of a Dubai royal has raised concerns about the treatment of women in the United Arab Emirates, despite the nation’s public image of promoting gender equality. Ms. Javadli, the ex-wife, alleges a complex and uncomfortable reality exists beneath Dubai’s “glittering surface,” according to advocates working on her case.
The case centers around accusations from Sheikh Saeed, presented in court depositions, that Ms. Javadli “forcibly” took their children on November 8th and afterward ”kidnapped” them with the assistance of her driver. He further accuses her of defamation, alleging she posted videos on social media “insulting and slandering” him and “defaming the state” in violation of UAE laws.
Sheikh Saeed’s legal team has previously argued in court that Ms. Javadli is an unfit mother,citing claims she failed to enroll her daughters in school,resided in unsuitable accommodations while staying in a hotel,and endangered the health of her youngest child. Ms. Javadli and her Emirati legal team have reportedly submitted evidence refuting these accusations.
The BBC has reached out to UAE officials involved in the case for comment but has not received a response.
This case is not isolated. David Haigh, an advocate for women in similar situations, states he has been involved in campaigns representing several former wives of members of Dubai’s royal family and other female family members – though none involve Sheikh Saeed directly.
High-profile cases like that of Princess Haya, the ex-wife of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who fled the UAE in 2019 fearing for her life and later won sole custody of their two children in a UK court in 2022, have drawn international attention. The 2018 attempted escape of Princess Latifa, daughter of Dubai’s ruler, who claimed she was fleeing “coercive control,” and her subsequent forced return from the Indian ocean, further fueled scrutiny. Princess Latifa later appeared in public and stated she was well and living as she wished.
Ms. Javadli and Haigh contend that while Dubai promotes itself as a champion of women’s rights and empowerment, the reality for some women can be substantially more challenging. The current custody battle underscores these concerns, raising fears for Ms.Javadli’s safety and well-being as the legal proceedings continue.
