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UAE public figure under investigation for 'indecent' video

Sharjah is considered one of the more conservative emirates in the UAE
Sharjah ruler Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammad al-Qassimi at the American University of Sharjah (AFP)

Sharjah Police said in a statement on Monday that a “public figure in the UAE” was captured in an online video, dancing with a woman in an indecent manner.

The police identified the man as Khaled Hurriya, a UAE businessman and former chairman of the UAE’s Fans Association football team, reported Gulf News. 

The identity of the man dancing in the video has yet to be confirmed in court.

Sharjah is one of seven United Arab Emirates, the capital of which is Abu Dhabi. It is considered one of the more conservative emirates in the UAE.  

The video footage which was circulated on social media last week, reportedly showed a group of men and women dancing at a party or celebration in Khor Fakkan, Gulf News reported. 

Khor Fakkan is a town located along the Gulf of Oman on the east coast of the UAE. It is known for its picturesque views and luxurious resorts. 

Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammad al-Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, addressed in a letter the police’s commander-in-chief calling for an investigation into the incident.

“I order you to investigate the incident of the immoral video footage which occurred in Khor Fakkan and bring to justice all those involved and who helped in this immoral act.”

The video sparked an uproar among UAE residents, some of whom requested authorities to take action.

Translation: The people of Khor Fakkan do not condone this incident. It does not represent any of us. 

Police, now conducting a probe into the video, said the order is meant to "protect" the young generation from engaging in such activities, reported Gulf News. 

The incident is considered a first of its kind in Sharjah. 

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