Northern Irish Man Faces Jail in Dubai

Craig Ballentine, a 33-year-old autism support worker from Belfast, is facing up to two years in prison in Dubai for posting a negative review of a dog grooming business where he was previously employed. After being diagnosed with fibromyalgia, he took time off work but was reported as 'absconded' by his employer, leading to unemployment and a travel ban that cost him thousands to lift. Upon returning to Northern Ireland, he posted a Google review criticizing the business and his former boss. Three weeks ago, while on holiday in Abu Dhabi, Ballentine was arrested and transferred to Dubai under strict cybercrime laws that prohibit online criticism. His case has drawn attention to the UAE’s severe laws, which allow individuals to file slander charges based on mere complaints, even if the content is not abusive. Activists have described the situation as 'outrageous', noting that local lawyers suggest almost no chance of the charges being dropped.