As spending escalated, so did his dependence on borrowing. He relied on credit cards, overdrafts, and loans from friends, turning debt repayment into a vicious cycle. Month after month, his salary went almost entirely to banks, leaving him trapped in financial quicksand.
Borrowing and breaking down
The turning point came when he borrowed Dh200,000 from a colleague, promising repayment within two months. Instead of honouring his word, he avoided the lender, who eventually filed a case. That single complaint opened the door to more lawsuits, exposing a pattern of bounced cheques and financial negligence.
Soon, courts ordered him to settle nearly Dh2 million in debts. With no way out, he was sentenced to prison.
His words from prison
Speaking from his cell, he admitted: “I thought luxury was happiness, but it was an illusion that ruined my present and destroyed my future. My life became tied to debts and lawsuits. My advice is simple: never sacrifice your dignity or your family’s honour for appearances or temporary pleasures. Live simply, and never take debts you cannot repay.”
Expert perspectives
Wrong financial behaviours lead to a dead end
Colonel Belhaye, Director of the Criminal Investigation Department, said this was not an isolated case but a recurring pattern. “Many young people rush into spending and appearances without financial awareness. Fraud and bounced cheques often start with uncalculated decisions that spiral into legal trouble. The best prevention is early awareness.”
Law does not excuse negligence
Manaa bin Mayed explained that the risks of reckless spending go beyond punishment. “The law does not protect those who neglect the rights of others. Financial negligence harms families, careers, and reputations in lasting ways.”
Debts create tension within families
Psychologist Dr Nora Al Ali noted that debt often stems from the false belief that happiness is tied to appearances. She said more than 70% of depression and anxiety cases in families are linked to debt pressures and the breakdowns that follow.
The lesson
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Money should protect dignity, not destroy it.
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Luxury and appearances can be illusions that lead to hardship.
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Financial awareness and planning are shields against crises.
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Prevention begins with living simply and making responsible choices.
Aghaddir is a senior news reporter at Gulf News with more than a decade of experience covering the UAE’s most pressing developments. Known for her sharp eye for detail and deep expertise in the country’s legal and security systems, Aghaddir delivers journalism that clarifies complex issues and informs public discourse.
While based in Sharjah, she also covers Dubai and the northern emirates. She leads daily reporting with a strong focus on breaking news, law enforcement, courts, crime, and legislation. Her work also spans education, public safety, environmental issues, and compelling community and adventure features.
Aghaddir’s investigative stories engage readers in meaningful conversations about the nation’s evolving challenges and opportunities. Her interests include public policy, judicial affairs, social issues, healthcare, and governance, and her body of work reflects a commitment to accurate, impactful, and socially relevant journalism. She has established herself as a reliable and trusted voice in the region’s media.
