British chef Luke Tully endured a harrowing experience in Dubai’s prison system after being wrongfully accused of drug possession, resulting in nearly two years of incarceration. Tully, a 47-year-old father of four, moved to Dubai in 2018 to establish a successful restaurant business. His life took a dramatic turn in 2020, following a misunderstanding stemming from a text message.
Tully’s ordeal began when he befriended a man associated with the upscale Oak nightclub. After this associate was caught with cocaine, police searched his home, discovered more drugs, and found a text from Tully about a restaurant reservation. Misinterpreting this message as evidence of drug involvement, the police stormed Tully’s apartment, arresting him without justification.
Describing the incident, Tully recalled: “They came rushing in — about 12 of them, not in uniform. They looked like they were from Al-Qaeda. I thought I was about to be kidnapped.” The officers accused him of drug possession, subjected him to physical abuse, and demanded he sign statements in Arabic.
Despite testing negative for drugs and the lack of any evidence against him, Tully spent 19 months in two different prisons in the United Arab Emirates. His initial incarceration lasted for a year without trial, during which he faced what he termed “mental torture.” He stated, “The Dubai prison was a hellhole,” describing overcrowding and deplorable conditions.
The facilities were overwhelmed, housing approximately 200 inmates in spaces intended for just 130. Tully recounted the unsanitary conditions, including limited access to toilets and showers, and shared a cell with individuals convicted of serious crimes. He noted, “There were rapists and paedophiles from Third World countries. One prisoner had been caught breaking into a barn and having sex with a goat.”
After weeks of distress, Tully finally had a conversation with a representative from the British embassy, who informed him of the severe penalties he could face, including the death penalty. This encounter prompted Tully to leave the meeting in disbelief. Fortunately, the case against him eventually collapsed after 19 months, leading to his release and deportation back to the UK.
Reflecting on his experience, Tully stated, “I don’t regret going to Dubai because I learned a lot about myself and I found a strength I didn’t know I had.” He urges caution for anyone considering travel to the UAE, highlighting the risks associated with the country’s strict drug laws.
Over recent years, Dubai has seen an influx of drug-related incidents, with cocaine becoming increasingly prevalent. Tully observed that the local drug scene is thriving, with dealers profiting significantly. Prices for cocaine can reach up to £300 per gram, making it a lucrative venture for traffickers. He warned that innocent expatriates and tourists could easily find themselves entangled in the drug culture, as even being in a room where drugs are present can lead to severe legal consequences.
As Tully prepares to share his story in a forthcoming book, he aims to raise awareness about the potential dangers of life in Dubai, emphasizing the importance of remaining vigilant. “Don’t accept drugs and don’t let yourself be anywhere near them — it’s that simple,” he advises.
His harrowing account serves as a cautionary tale for those drawn to the allure of life in the UAE, underscoring the need for awareness and understanding of the region’s legal landscape.
