What Has Happened to Princess Latifa of Dubai?

By Anna Duncan

Princess Latifa bint Mohammed al-Maktoum, daughter of the ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, has been making headlines since her failed attempt to escape from her country in 2018. She was detained and forcibly returned to Dubai, sparking concerns about her safety and wellbeing.

Who is Princess Latifa?

Princess Latifa is one of the daughters of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum. She is known for being an advocate of women’s rights and a supporter of the LGBT community in a country where such issues are not commonly discussed.

In a video released after her failed attempt to escape, she claimed that she had been imprisoned and tortured by her father for trying to leave the country. She also stated that she feared for her life and wanted to seek asylum in another country.

What happened during her escape attempt?

In February 2018, Princess Latifa tried to escape from Dubai with the help of a Frenchman named Hervé Jaubert and a former French spy named Daniel Marc.

The group sailed from Oman on Jaubert’s yacht but were intercepted by Emirati forces near the coast of India. Jaubert and Marc were captured while Princess Latifa was forcibly returned to Dubai.

What has happened since then?

After her return to Dubai, Princess Latifa was not seen or heard from until December 2018 when photos were released showing her meeting with Mary Robinson, former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

However, many have criticized Robinson’s involvement in the case, claiming that she was used as a propaganda tool by the Emirati government. Robinson herself later admitted that she had been “horribly tricked” into believing that Princess Latifa was well.

Since then, there have been no updates on Princess Latifa’s whereabouts or condition. Her friends have continued to campaign for her release, with some even launching legal action against Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum.

What can be done?

The case of Princess Latifa has brought attention to the issue of human rights abuses in Dubai and the UAE. Many have called for international pressure to be put on the country to release Princess Latifa and improve its human rights record.

Individuals can also support the campaign for Princess Latifa’s release by raising awareness about her case on social media and contacting their elected representatives to urge them to take action.

Conclusion

The case of Princess Latifa is a reminder of the importance of human rights and the need for accountability from those in power. It is our responsibility as global citizens to speak out against abuses and demand justice for those who have been wronged.