British Man Allegedly Tortured in Dubai Detention for Over Seven Months, Rights Group Says

British National Held Without Legal Access in UAE, Family Fears He Will Die in Custody

A 27-year-old British man has been detained in Dubai for more than seven months without explanation, meaningful legal access, or private communication with his family, and has allegedly been subjected to beatings, threats, and psychological abuse, the human rights organisation Detained in Dubai said.

Ryan Pepper, from Ashford in Kent, was detained on 3 November. He has been hospitalised at least once for injuries believed to be linked to assaults sustained in custody, according to the group.

Smuggled Notes Describe Systematic Beatings

In handwritten notes reportedly smuggled out of the detention facility, Pepper stated that “everyone was beaten up” inside the site where he is being held. His family says he was kept in isolation for approximately 20 days.

Pepper’s family has stated they fear he will die in custody. Detained in Dubai has raised urgent concerns regarding arbitrary detention, torture allegations, and the broader treatment of British nationals held in the UAE.

UK Government Response Described as Limited

The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) confirmed it is providing consular support. “We are in contact with his family and continue to raise the case directly with the local authorities,” an FCDO spokesperson said.

The spokesperson added: “The UK takes all allegations of torture and mistreatment extremely seriously and will always raise these with relevant authorities with the individuals’ consent.”

The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs had not responded to requests for comment at the time of publication. The UAE is a signatory to the UN Convention Against Torture, which prohibits torture and cruel or degrading treatment under all circumstances.