'She just vanished': Zeynab Javadli, ex-wife of Dubai Prince Sheikh Saeed bin Al Maktoum, three children 'abducted' amid bitter custody battle

Reports surrounding the disappearance of Zeynab Javadli, ex-wife of Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, have sparked international concern after a British lawyer claimed she and her three children were taken in a sudden overnight incident in Dubai. The case has now intensified a long-running custody dispute involving the former couple, according to media reports. However, she was later taken into custody by the authorities, the BBC reported.

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Sudden disappearance after alleged night raid

According to claims made by British lawyer David Haigh, Javadli vanished after a night-time incident and has not been heard from since. “He said the authorities did not provide any single answer as to what might have happened to her.”

Haigh stated he last spoke to her on Tuesday night, after which all contact was lost. Her family and legal team say they have been unable to trace her or the children.


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Custody battle involving Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum

The dispute centres around Javadli and her ex-husband, Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, nephew of Dubai’s ruler. The couple has been engaged in a bitter custody battle over their three daughters, with both sides previously accusing each other of abduction.

Authorities say the latest complaint was filed by the father, alleging that Javadli abducted the children during a court-approved visitation.

“She just vanished,” says lawyer

Haigh told media that the situation escalated suddenly: “She said the authorities did not provide any single answer as to what might have happened to her.” He added that Javadli’s mother, who travelled to Dubai, found the residence locked and empty.

For nearly two days, there was no confirmed information on her location.

Who is Zeynab Javadli?

Javadli is a former Azerbaijani rhythmic gymnast who later lived in the UAE after her marriage into the Dubai royal family.

Her legal situation has been complicated by earlier allegations related to online activity, including livestreaming during previous custody-related confrontations.

At the time, she said: “I knew that it was the last chance to be with my children as they would never let me see them again. I genuinely believed that it was my last chance, so I just opened a livestream and called for help.”

Custody battle marked by repeated disputes

Court documents and legal claims from both sides suggest a long history of escalating conflict. Lawyers representing Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum have previously alleged that Javadli was not providing a stable environment for the children, including claims related to schooling and living conditions.

Meanwhile, Javadli had accused authorities and her ex-husband of repeatedly limiting her access to her daughters.

Authorities say case is under investigation

Dubai Public Prosecution confirmed that Javadli was detained following a complaint filed by her former husband.

Officials said the matter remains under investigation and subject to ongoing legal proceedings. “[We] will continue to take the necessary legal measures in accordance with applicable laws, while safeguarding the children's wellbeing and best interests,” the statement added.

Legal appeal for access and release

Following the developments, lawyer David Haigh has called for immediate access to Javadli, urging authorities to allow her legal representation and contact with her family and consulate.

He has also demanded clarity on her whereabouts and legal status.

The situation remains fluid, with no independent confirmation yet on the current location of Javadli and her children, as legal proceedings continue behind closed doors.