WhatsApp insult in Dubai ends in permanent blindness, prison sentence, fine, and deportation

Dubai: A dispute that began with a WhatsApp message escalated into a violent confrontation, leaving one man blind in his right eye and two individuals facing legal consequences, according to court documents from Dubai’s judicial system.

The altercation started when a man of Arab nationality allegedly insulted an Asian national via WhatsApp. In response, the latter physically attacked the former, delivering a punch to his right eye that resulted in a detached retina and permanent loss of vision. The injury was classified as a 35 per cent permanent disability, as confirmed by a forensic medical report.

The criminal court in Dubai tried both men: the Arab defendant was fined Dh1,000 for using electronic means to issue an insult, while the assailant was sentenced to six months in prison followed by deportation.

Following the criminal proceedings, the injured party filed a civil lawsuit seeking Dh150,000 in compensation, citing medical expenses, psychological trauma, and interruption to his personal and professional life. He also requested 12 per cent annual interest from the date of filing until full repayment.

As part of his claim, he submitted comprehensive documentation including medical assessments, copies of the criminal judgments, and certification from the public prosecutor affirming the finality of the verdict. According to the plaintiff, he endured not only the physical toll of vision loss but also the emotional distress and humiliation stemming from the incident.

In its ruling, the civil court emphasised that a final criminal judgment holds binding authority in determining the facts of the case, such as the assault and its legal attribution. Based on this, and in accordance with Dubai Court of Cassation precedent, the civil court determined the assault constituted a grave violation of the plaintiff’s physical and psychological integrity.

The court awarded the plaintiff Dh100,000 in compensation, along with a 5 per cent interest rate from the date the judgment became final.

- Huda Ata is an independent writer based in the UAE.