Ex-wife of Dubai ruler applies for forced marriage protection in UK

The ex-wife of Dubai ruler is applying for forced marriage protection in the United Kingdom, according to media reports.

Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein reportedly arrived at the Royal Courts of Justice in London on Tuesday ahead of the latest hearing in the legal battle between her and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum over their children. It has been reported that the proceedings are concerned with the welfare of the two children of their marriage and do not concern divorce or finances. Princess Haya has applied for the wardship of their children, as well as for a forced marriage protection order and a non-molestation order in relation to herself.

Sheikh Mohammed, who turned 70 earlier this month, is the vice president and prime minister of the United Arab Emirates and ruler of Dubai. He is also the founder of the successful Godolphin horse racing stable and last month received a trophy from the Queen after one of his horses won a race at Royal Ascot. He was not present at the hearing on Tuesday.

Princess Haya, 45, who is the half-sister of King Abdullah II of Jordan and is Sheikh Mohammed's sixth wife, reportedly fled Dubai earlier this year.