An Australian woman is suing a five-star UAE hotel after she was drugged and raped by co-workers - but ended up in jail for eight months for having sex outside marriage.
Alicia Gali, 29, had her drink spiked and was raped by four co-workers at the luxury Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort in the United Arab Emirates in June 2008.
She is seeking compensation from her former employer for breaching its workplace duty of care after she reported the assault to authorities, only to be jailed for eight months on an adultery charge.
Ms Gali claims the hotel failed to protect staff against assault and its legal consequences.
She alleges the resort encouraged workers to drink illegally, despite strict laws and the requirement of drinking permits.
The 'harrowing' ordeal has since caused Ms Gali severe post traumatic stress disorder, nightmares, flashbacks, depression and claustrophobia, according to her lawyer Melissa Payne.
Trey Maurice from the resort's parent company Starwood Hotels, said safety and security of staff is a paramount priority.
Mr Maurice says the management of the resort was aware of the unfortunate circumstances and provided support and assistance to Ms Gali and her family during her imprisonment.
Ms Payne said Ms Gali's lawsuit against the resort was likely to take place in court in Queensland, Australia, but could possible happen in the UAE.
An exact figure for the compensation has yet to be determined, Ms Payne said.
Source: Daily Mail
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