At the recent graduation ceremony of New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), a student who shouted "Free Palestine!" while crossing the stage to receive his diploma was allegedly deported from the UAE, the Associated Press (AP) reported.

The incident unfolded against the backdrop of the UAE's delicate diplomatic balancing act, maintaining relations with “Israel” and hosting “Israeli” diplomatic missions while the occupation continues its aggression on Gaza. 

Despite providing aid to Palestinians, the UAE avoided the mass protests seen elsewhere in the Arab world, maintaining strict controls on speech in a country where political parties are illegal.

Students at NYUAD complained of restrictions on activities related to the Gaza war, including bans on displaying Palestinian flags on campus and organizing vigils. 

Speaking anonymously for fear of reprisals, students described a campus atmosphere where cultural expressions deemed politically sensitive were tightly regulated.

NYUAD told AP its obligation to abide by local laws and immigration protocols but emphasized its commitment to academic freedom on campus. The university clarified that it had no authority over immigration or law enforcement actions taken by UAE authorities.

Before the graduation ceremony, students were reportedly warned against displaying cultural attire, including scarves like the traditional Palestinian keffiyeh. 

Despite these warnings, the student defied orders and proclaimed his message on stage, leading to his detention and subsequent deportation, according to reports from the American Association of University Professors (AAUP).

Criticism has not been new for NYUAD, which previously faced scrutiny over its labor practices during campus construction and its handling of academic freedoms. 

The university conducted investigations and pledged reforms in response to earlier allegations, although concerns persisted among human rights groups.