Dubai prosecutors say ex-wife of ruler’s nephew is detained

Dubai authorities have detained Zeynab Javadli, the former wife of Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, a nephew of the ruler of Dubai, after a complaint filed by her ex-husband, prosecutors said. Family and friends said they lost contact with Javadli on Tuesday night, prompting concern about her whereabouts for nearly two days.

Dubai Public Prosecution said the detention followed a complaint by Sheikh Saeed alleging that Javadli abducted their three children during a court-approved visitation session. Prosecutors said the case remains under investigation and is subject to ongoing legal proceedings.

The dispute is the latest development in a custody case in which the children have moved between the parents and both sides have made allegations of abduction. Prosecutors said the authorities would continue to take legal measures under applicable laws while safeguarding the children’s wellbeing and best interests.

Complaint centers on court-approved visitation

Prosecutors said Sheikh Saeed accused Javadli of taking the children during a visitation arrangement approved by a court. The statement did not provide additional detail on where the children are now or whether any charges have been filed.

According to prosecutors, Sheikh Saeed filed a similar complaint last year, accusing Javadli of kidnapping their daughters. The case has included repeated handovers of the children, with each parent accusing the other of wrongdoing.

Possible UAE e-crimes case cited in custody dispute

Javadli, a former international gymnast, has also faced potential arrest for e-crimes in the United Arab Emirates after livestreaming a confrontation related to the custody battle last year, prosecutors said.

Officials said the matter remains under investigation. Further court decisions in the custody case and any prosecutorial steps on the e-crimes allegation are expected to determine what happens next.