European Woman Fined AED 15k for Dubai Necklace Theft

A European woman has been fined AED 15,000 after she was caught on CCTV stealing a gold necklace from a Dubai jewellery shop. The incident has raised concerns about retail security and strict enforcement of theft laws in the emirate.

The theft occurred in March 2025 when the woman allegedly placed a gold necklace worth AED 10,000 into her handbag and left the store. Store staff noticed the missing item soon after, prompting a review of the surveillance footage. The footage clearly showed the woman taking the necklace, leading authorities to take action.

Dubai Police tracked the suspect using her vehicle details and apprehended her shortly thereafter. During interrogation, the woman admitted to the theft, citing emotional distress following the death of her sister as a reason for her actions. Her defense lawyer pleaded for leniency, highlighting her personal circumstances.

The Dubai Misdemeanours and Violations Court ruled that the evidence showed clear intent to steal. The court fined her AED 5,000 and ordered an additional AED 10,000 to compensate the jewellery store for the stolen item, totaling AED 15,000. The judge noted that the circumstances indicated full awareness of her actions, despite her emotional state.

This case underscores the strict approach Dubai authorities take toward retail theft, emphasizing the use of modern surveillance and investigative techniques to ensure accountability.