Marcus Fakana, a 19-year-old from Tottenham, north London, has been released from a Dubai prison and is now back home in the UK after receiving a royal pardon from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai.

Fakana was sentenced to a year in prison in December 2024 for having a consensual relationship with a 17-year-old British girl while on holiday in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The girl, who has since turned 18, was also visiting Dubai with her family when the two reportedly began a brief holiday romance.

However, under UAE law, the age of consent is 18, and the legal system criminalises sex outside of marriage. Fakana’s case took a turn when the girl’s mother discovered messages between the two and reported him to the authorities upon her return to the UK.

The case triggered outrage and concern from human rights groups, including Detained in Dubai, which called the punishment "disproportionate" and criticised the criminalisation of tourists.

Radha Stirling, chief executive of Detained in Dubai, confirmed Fakana’s release and said, “His case has attracted significant public attention due to concerns about the criminalisation of tourists and disproportionate sentencing. We believe this case highlights the urgent need for expedited legal processes for foreign nationals and safeguards against unnecessary custodial sentences.”

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office also confirmed the teenager’s return, stating: “We understand he wanted to get back to the UK without media attention and to see his family. We supported him and were in contact with them.”

Fakana was held at Al Awir Prison in Dubai but had reportedly written directly to Sheikh Mohammed requesting clemency. His release was granted under an Eid pardon, a gesture of compassion commonly offered during major Islamic religious holidays.

Now back in the UK and recovering with his family, Marcus’s case has sparked broader conversations about international laws, cultural clashes, and the risks faced by young tourists abroad.