Is BDS Valid in Dubai?

By Alice Nichols

If you are planning to set up a business in Dubai, one of the first things that may come to mind is whether BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions) is valid in the region. BDS is a global movement that aims to put economic and political pressure on Israel until it complies with international law and recognizes Palestinian rights. In this article, we will explore the validity of BDS in Dubai.

What is BDS?

BDS was launched in 2005 by Palestinian civil society organizations, calling for non-violent resistance against Israeli occupation. The movement involves boycotting Israeli products and companies, divesting from companies that support Israeli occupation, and imposing sanctions on Israel until it complies with international law.

Is BDS valid in Dubai?

The UAE (United Arab Emirates), of which Dubai is a part, does not officially recognize BDS. In fact, the country has taken steps to strengthen its ties with Israel in recent years.

In September 2020, the UAE signed an agreement with Israel to establish diplomatic relations between the two countries. This move has been hailed as a major breakthrough for peace in the Middle East.

However, it’s worth noting that there have been instances where individuals or organizations have been penalized for promoting or practicing BDS in Dubai. For example, in 2018, a British citizen was detained at Dubai airport for wearing a t-shirt that had “Boycott Divestment Sanctions” written on it.

What are the consequences of practicing BDS in Dubai?

As mentioned earlier, there have been cases where individuals promoting or practicing BDS have faced consequences in Dubai. This includes being detained or deported from the country.

Moreover, businesses operating in Dubai need to be careful about their dealings with Israeli companies or products. While there are no official laws banning such dealings, it’s important to keep up-to-date with the latest developments and regulations in the country.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while BDS is not officially recognized in Dubai, it’s important to be aware of the potential consequences of promoting or practicing it in the country. As with any business endeavor, it’s crucial to stay informed and abide by local laws and regulations.