Case Background The case stemmed from allegations that one of the defendants had lured a woman under false pretences and taken her to a private farm in the Al Tay area, owned by the second defendant. The woman claimed she was held against her will, threatened, and subjected to both sexual and physical assault. Forensic reports, however, documented only minor injuries. Prosecutors accused the second defendant of assisting in the crime by providing the location and allegedly participating in the assault. Both men were charged under the UAE Penal Code, covering kidnapping, physical violence, threats, and sexual assault. First Court Verdict On 26 June 2025, the Court of First Instance found both men not guilty, citing insufficient evidence. The court also dismissed a related civil claim, ordering the complainant to pay legal fees and case costs. Dissatisfied with the ruling, the Public Prosecution filed an appeal in July 2025, seeking to overturn the acquittal and secure convictions. Appeal Proceedings During the appeal hearings, both defendants denied the charges through their legal representatives. The defence argued that the encounter had been consensual, pointing out that the complainant admitted to a personal relationship with the first defendant and voluntarily accompanied him to the farm. The appellate court carefully reviewed the evidence, witness statements, and forensic reports. It noted that medical findings did not support claims of violent assault or coercion. The judges also highlighted that UAE law does not criminalise consensual sexual activity between adults over the age of 18. Court’s Reasoning The judges emphasized that under UAE law, a conviction requires proof beyond a reasonable doubt. Since the prosecution could not present evidence strong enough to support its claims, the court concluded that the appeal lacked sufficient grounds. In its final ruling, the court stated that the prosecution’s appeal merely questioned the way the first court assessed the evidence, which was not a valid basis for overturning an acquittal. As a result, the verdict in favor of the defendants was upheld and declared final. Key Findings of the Court The complainant had a prior personal relationship with the first defendant. She willingly entered the car and went to the farm. Medical reports did not confirm injuries consistent with her claims. Evidence failed to prove the use of threats or force. Final Decision The Dubai Court of Appeal confirmed the acquittal of both Emirati men, making the ruling final and legally binding. The case serves as a reminder of the high evidentiary standards in UAE criminal law, where allegations must be backed by clear, convincing, and consistent evidence.