What are the implications of a defamation lawsuit if I am not a resident?

The comment is negative, and maybe some of the words are harsh. I don't think it is defamation.

If they ask to remove the comment, I advise you to remove it.

And after three months of writing the comment, file a complaint against them for medical error.

It has been 6 months. I did advise them that I would go to the Dubai health authority to file a complaint but they didn’t care.

Can you please advise me if they can file anything against me and how would it affect me as a non-resident of the UAE?

I am worried that I might not be able to return to the UAE or not risk a visit.

When did you write the comment?

And when did they find out that you wrote the comment?

I have reached out to them multiple times asking to resolve the issue and after which I would remove the comment.

I also asked for written confirmation from the owner that if I did remove the comment, no legal action would be taken against me by them or any other parties, this was refused and they just expect me to take their word for it.

Dear,

Don't show me what other lawyers say.

You asked me and I answered you.

Thank you!

I understand that, but I’m having mixed answers from different people and it’s not providing me with a clear and concise answer.

They have the right to complain, whether you write your comment in Google or on the clinic wall, it makes no difference.

Acceptance or rejection of their complaint is up to the judicial authorities; they may accept, or they may refuse, because the statements are not direct and explicit defamation.

Removing a comment is your only option. And I have nothing to add.

Could they still pursue legal action once the comment is removed?

Yes.

Against what grounds?

I answered a lot of questions. If you want more, contact us via WhatsApp.

OK, I appreciate your time for answering my questions.

Thank you!

How can they raise a defamation case against me when I don’t live in the country and also placed the review on a regulated channel (i.e not on a social media platform)?

You put it on Google, which can be seen by the public so they still can raise a complaint against your name irrespective of whether you are in the country or not.

OK, so what are the implications if they do raise it against my name? Banned from the country? Google map reviews are supposed to be a legal platform to express opinions of the service of that establishment; if a complaint should be made, shouldn’t it be to Google?

If legal action can be made against a Google review, then isn’t that denying freedom of speech?

There would be a travel ban on you and if ever you travel or transit through the UAE, you might get arrested.

All for leaving a review?

It seems a bit extreme to me.

I have a local family friend who is a judge in a court so I will consult with him too.

Thank you!