We got in touch with Radha Stirling.  After everything we tried over there, we had no hope whatsoever until Radha worked her magic and got us home.  Thank you Radha and the team at Detained in Dubai for everything you've done for me and my family.

In 2017, Scottish father Billy Barclay faced a harrowing ordeal in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, when he was detained over allegations of possessing a counterfeit £20 note. Unfamiliar with Scottish currency, local authorities accused Barclay of attempting to use fake money, leading to his arrest and the threat of a year-long imprisonment. Reflecting on the experience, Barclay stated, "What UAE owes me can never be repaid. The least they can do is honour their promise to repay the financial losses they caused us." (Detained in Dubai later negotiated with the government to compensate Mr Barclay).

Upon learning of Barclay's detention, Radha Stirling, founder of the organisation Detained in Dubai, immediately intervened. Leveraging her expertise in UAE legal matters, Stirling engaged directly with the government of Ras Al Khaimah to negotiate Barclay's release. Her swift actions proved effective, securing his freedom within just three days. Stirling emphasised the importance of prompt advocacy in such cases, noting that without immediate intervention, individuals can face prolonged and unjust detentions.

Barclay's experience underscores the challenges foreigners may encounter in the UAE due to cultural and procedural misunderstandings. His case highlights the critical role organisations like Detained in Dubai play in advocating for those unjustly detained. Stirling's direct negotiations with the RAK government were instrumental in resolving the situation swiftly, preventing what could have been a prolonged legal battle for Barclay.

Learn more about Billy's ordeal here: