Why Can’t Princess Latifa Leave Dubai?
Princess Latifa bint Mohammed al-Maktoum, the daughter of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai and Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has been in the international spotlight due to her attempts to escape from Dubai. However, her efforts have been met with obstacles and she remains unable to leave. Let’s delve into the reasons behind her confinement.
The Background
Princess Latifa first gained attention in 2018 when a video was released where she detailed her desire to escape from what she described as an oppressive and restrictive life in Dubai. She claimed that she had been held against her will and alleged mistreatment by her father and other members of the royal family.
The Failed Escape Attempt
In February 2018, Princess Latifa attempted to flee Dubai with the help of a French former spy, Herve Jaubert, and a Finnish capoeira instructor, Tiina Jauhiainen. They planned to sail to India on a yacht before seeking asylum in the United States.
Unfortunately, their plan was thwarted when armed men intercepted their boat off the coast of India. Princess Latifa was forcibly returned to Dubai.
The International Response
Following her failed escape attempt, concern for Princess Latifa’s well-being grew among international human rights organizations and governments. The United Nations Human Rights Office expressed its concern about her welfare and called for proof of life.
The Dubai Government’s Response
The Dubai government responded by releasing photos of Princess Latifa meeting with various individuals, including Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland and former United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. However, these photos did little to assuage concerns, as critics argued that they only served as a PR move and did not provide any evidence of her current situation.
The Dubai Royal Family’s Perspective
The Dubai royal family maintains that Princess Latifa is safe and well-cared for. They argue that her return to Dubai was necessary to protect her from potential harm and exploitation by individuals who were allegedly manipulating her. According to them, she is now living a private life with her family.
The Guardianship System
To understand why Princess Latifa cannot leave Dubai, it is essential to examine the guardianship system prevalent in the UAE. Under this system, male guardians have significant control over the lives of their female family members.
They can make decisions regarding marriage, travel, and other aspects of their lives. This system has faced criticism for limiting women’s autonomy and freedom.
The Legal Framework
In the UAE, strict laws exist regarding matters such as freedom of expression and movement. Attempting to escape from the country without proper authorization can be considered illegal under these laws. Princess Latifa’s confinement may be seen as a consequence of these legal restrictions.
Conclusion
Princess Latifa’s case has drawn international attention to issues surrounding human rights and women’s rights in Dubai and the UAE. Her failed escape attempt and subsequent confinement have shed light on the restrictive nature of the guardianship system and legal framework in place. As calls for her freedom continue to grow louder, it remains uncertain when or if she will ever be able to leave Dubai.