Dubai Woman on Trial Over Alleged Privacy Breach and Defamation of Ex-Husband in WhatsApp Group

What began as a seemingly harmless update in a school WhatsApp group has now escalated into a criminal court case in Dubai, after a mother was accused of breaching her former husband’s privacy and damaging his reputation online. The case was recently highlighted by the Dubai Public Prosecution through its official Instagram account as a cautionary example of the legal risks associated with digital communication.

The woman, identified as Maram, is the mother of a nine-year-old boy named Marwan. Following her separation from her former spouse, Luay, the child has been living with her. The former couple remains locked in a legal dispute over alimony, which is currently being examined by the personal status courts.

According to Maram, she shoulders full responsibility for her son’s upbringing, including his education, daily care, and living expenses. She has stated that she hopes the ongoing legal proceedings will eventually secure her child’s financial and emotional well-being. However, unresolved tensions between the parents continue to surface, eventually spilling into the digital sphere.

Prosecutors explained that the situation took a dramatic turn when Maram received a notification from her son’s school WhatsApp group indicating that Luay had been added to the chat. The group was used by parents and school staff to share announcements, updates, and information related to students.

The development reportedly upset Maram, who believed her former husband had no active role in their child’s education or financial support. Authorities said she felt his inclusion in the group was unjustified, given what she viewed as his lack of involvement in their son’s life.

In a moment of anger and frustration, Maram allegedly sent a detailed message to the group, addressing all participants. In her message, she outlined her ongoing disputes with Luay and accused him of failing to fulfil his parental responsibilities. She reportedly stated that he did not contribute financially and did not participate in raising their child.

Shortly after sending the message, Maram exited the WhatsApp group. However, by then, her comments had already been seen by other parents and school representatives.

Luay later submitted a formal complaint to security authorities, claiming that his former wife had publicly disclosed private matters and made statements that harmed his reputation. He argued that the issues between them were personal and should not have been shared in a public forum involving unrelated individuals.

Following a review of the complaint and an investigation into the incident, the Public Prosecution decided to press charges. Maram was accused of violating privacy and committing defamation under the UAE’s cybercrime laws. The case has since been referred to the Dubai Misdemeanour Court, where she will stand trial.

Officials emphasised that the charges were based on the misuse of a digital platform to air personal grievances in a way that allegedly caused reputational harm. Under UAE law, publishing or sharing personal information or accusations about another person without consent — even within private messaging groups — can constitute a criminal offence.

The Public Prosecution used the case to underline the broader legal implications of online behaviour. Authorities warned that many individuals underestimate the seriousness of posting messages in group chats, assuming they are informal or private spaces. In reality, such platforms can carry the same legal consequences as public posts when content crosses legal boundaries.

Prosecutors stressed that disagreements between former spouses, particularly those involving financial or custody issues, should be resolved through legal channels rather than social media. Publicly exposing disputes, they said, can escalate tensions and lead to criminal liability.

The case also highlighted concerns about the emotional impact on children caught in the middle of parental conflicts. Authorities urged separated couples to prioritise their children’s mental and emotional stability, noting that public disputes can have lasting psychological effects.

In its message to the public, the Public Prosecution encouraged parents to act responsibly online and to avoid using digital platforms to vent anger or frustration. Officials advised that communication involving schools and children should remain respectful and focused on the child’s welfare, regardless of personal disagreements between parents.

As the case proceeds through the courts, it serves as a reminder that online messages — even those sent impulsively — can have serious legal consequences. What may feel like a momentary emotional release can ultimately lead to criminal charges, court proceedings, and long-term repercussions for all involved.

The authorities reiterated that safeguarding privacy, preserving dignity, and resolving conflicts through lawful means remain essential values in the digital age.