Dubai mum faces trial for violating ex-husband's privacy, defaming him in WhatsApp group

A routine school WhatsApp group update turned into a criminal case after a Dubai mother was charged with violating her ex-husband’s privacy and defaming him online, according to a case highlighted by the Dubai Public Prosecution on its official Instagram platform.

The incident centres on Marwan, a nine-year-old boy living with his mother Maram following her separation from her former husband Luay. The couple remains entangled in an ongoing alimony case before the personal status courts. Maram claims she bears full responsibility for her son’s schooling and daily needs, expressing hope that the court will issue a ruling that secures her child’s rights.

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According to prosecutors, tensions escalated when Maram received a notification from Marwan’s school WhatsApp group announcing the addition of Luay to the parent chat. The update upset her, as she believed he neither contributes to their child’s expenses nor participates in caring for him.

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Driven by frustration, Maram wrote a lengthy message to all members of the group detailing her disputes with Luay. She accused him of neglecting his duties and failing to support their son financially. Shortly after sending the message, she left the group.

Luay then filed a complaint with security authorities, alleging that Maram had defamed him and violated his privacy by sharing personal grievances in front of numerous parents and school staff.

Following an investigation, the Public Prosecution charged Maram with privacy violation under cybercrime legislation and referred her to the Dubai Misdemeanour Court for trial.

Authorities said the case serves as a reminder about the legal consequences of misusing social media platforms. They warned that airing personal disputes publicly can constitute a criminal offence, especially when it harms another person’s reputation.

The Public Prosecution urged separated couples to seek peaceful resolutions and safeguard the emotional stability of their children instead of escalating family conflicts into public confrontations.