Dubai, UAE: A 19-year-old Emirati was fined Dh1,000 for violating the public decency act after leaving an offensive handwritten note on a woman’s car in a public parking lot near a café in the Port Rashid area. The incident occurred on November 10, 2023, when the woman, also Emirati, had parked her white Mercedes and entered the café with her husband.
The Incident
After about an hour, the husband returned to the car and discovered the note, which contained language deemed inappropriate and offensive. He immediately photographed the note and sent it to his wife, who reported the matter to the police.
Authorities launched an investigation, reviewing surveillance footage from the parking area. They identified the young man driving a vehicle registered in Abu Dhabi and contacted him. During questioning, the teen admitted to leaving the note as a prank, claiming he did not know the car’s owner and had no intention of causing harm. He left the scene before witnessing any reaction to his actions.
Court Proceedings
The defendant pleaded guilty during court proceedings and expressed regret for his actions. He also presented evidence of reconciliation with the complainant. However, the court emphasized the seriousness of the offense and ruled that the reconciliation did not negate the crime.
The court referred to Federal Law No. 31 of 2021, which penalizes actions that breach public decency. Taking into account the teen’s age and remorse, the court imposed a lenient penalty of a Dh1,000 fine.
Key Takeaway
This case serves as a reminder that pranks or actions deemed offensive can have legal consequences in the UAE, where public decency laws are strictly enforced. Residents are urged to act responsibly and consider the implications of their behavior in public spaces.
