Is the Princess of Dubai Still Missing?

By Michael Ferguson

The Princess of Dubai, Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed al-Maktoum, has been a topic of concern for many since her disappearance on March 4, 2018. The princess attempted to escape from her family and the country on a yacht, but was allegedly intercepted by UAE forces and taken back to Dubai.

Since then, there have been no concrete updates on her whereabouts or well-being. Her friends and supporters have raised concerns about her safety and are demanding answers from the UAE government.

Background:

Sheikha Latifa is the daughter of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates. She attempted to escape due to what she described as years of abuse and restrictions imposed on her by her father and his regime.

In a video recorded before her escape attempt, Sheikha Latifa stated that she had previously attempted to leave but was forcibly returned and detained for three years. She also expressed fear for her life in case she was caught again.

Her friends claim that after being intercepted by UAE forces during her second attempt at escape, she was taken back to Dubai where she has been held incommunicado ever since.

International Concerns:

The disappearance of Sheikha Latifa has gained international attention with human rights organizations urging the UAE to release information about her whereabouts and well-being.

In December 2018, the UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances requested information from the UAE government regarding Sheikha Latifa’s status but received no response.

Recently in February 2021, a group of UN experts called for an independent investigation into Sheikha Latifa’s alleged abduction in 2018 and expressed concern over reports that she may be held in detention without access to medical care or legal representation.

The UAE Response:

The UAE has denied any wrongdoing and stated that Sheikha Latifa is safe in the care of her family. In a statement released in February 2021, the UAE embassy in London said that she was being “cared for at home” but did not disclose her location.

However, the lack of transparency and concrete information about her status has raised suspicions and concerns among observers.

Conclusion:

The disappearance of Sheikha Latifa has been a contentious issue since 2018 and has gained international attention. While the UAE maintains that she is safe with her family, many continue to question this claim in light of the lack of transparency and information surrounding her case. It remains to be seen if any further developments will take place and if she will ever be released from captivity.