Mia O’Brien, a 24-year-old British law student, is back home after being jailed in Dubai for drug offences. Her mum, Danielle McKenna, shared the news on TikTok, posting a Christmas morning video titled: “She’s Home.”

Mia was arrested in October 2024 while on holiday in Dubai. Reports say she was at a flat party when police found her with 50g of cocaine. She later tested positive for the drug and pleaded guilty in court.

Mia was convicted on July 25 for possession and supply charges. In the UAE, a “life sentence” can mean 15 to 25 years in prison, often followed by deportation and a large fine.

Danielle said the family spent months campaigning for Mia’s release. Earlier this month, they learned Mia had been pardoned, meaning she could return to the UK before Christmas.

In comments online, Danielle described the moment as a “Christmas miracle.” She also said Mia feels crushed by what happened and worries she has ruined her chance of becoming a solicitor.

The support group Detained in Dubai raised concerns about the legal process, suggesting convictions can be rushed compared to UK standards. A UAE-based legal expert said the reason for the release was not made public, but speculated it may have been influenced by reputational concerns.

Now home in Liverpool, Mia is trying to recover—and rebuild.