British Woman, 23, Jailed for Life in Dubai as Family Launch Appeal for Support

Mia O'Brien, 23, from Huyton, Liverpool

A young British woman has been sentenced to life in prison in Dubai, leaving her family devastated and pleading for help to cover legal and travel costs.

Mia O'Brien, 23, from Huyton, Liverpool, was jailed after what her mother described as a “very stupid mistake.” Her mother, Danielle McKenna, 46, revealed the news in an emotional fundraising appeal, saying she has not seen her daughter since October.

It's not known what Ms. McKenna has been convicted of, but life sentences in the Emirates can be given in cases of drug trafficking, depending on the circumstances and the amount of drugs

“Mia has been given a life sentence over in Dubai and she is now in central prison,” McKenna wrote. “As her mother, I am absolutely devastated. Mia is only 23 years old and has never done anything wrong in her life. She went to university to study law but got mixed up with the wrong so-called friends and is now paying the price.”

McKenna urged supporters to contribute to the appeal, even in small amounts, to help cover the costs of legal fees and potentially visit her daughter in the UAE. “I just want to thank everyone for their donations so far. This money will be used to support Mia directly, pay for any legal expenses, and hopefully get the family over to Dubai to see her,” she added.

Ms. O'Brien's mother, Danielle McKenna (right) is appealing for help and launched a fundraising page in her daughter's name

Speaking about her daughter’s ordeal, McKenna said: “She’s going through it at the minute. She’s just been transferred to another prison after getting a life sentence. It’s been a massive shock.”

The exact details of the crime for which O’Brien was convicted have not been disclosed. In Dubai, life sentences — often equating to around 15 years — can be imposed for drug trafficking, serious violence, or terrorism offenses. The UAE enforces strict zero-tolerance drug laws, with penalties ranging from lengthy prison terms to the death penalty depending on the severity of the crime. Even residual traces of drugs in the bloodstream are considered possession under Emirati law.

Other crimes attracting life terms – which in Dubai is usually around 15 years – include serious violence and terrorism

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) have repeatedly warned travelers of the severe consequences of drug-related offenses in the UAE. An FCDO spokesperson confirmed: “We are supporting the family of a British woman detained in the UAE and are in contact with the local authorities.”

As of the latest update, the family’s fundraising campaign had raised nearly £700 toward its £1,600 target.,