British-Egyptian citizen Alaa Abdel Fattah was prevented from boarding a flight to the United Kingdom by Egyptian passport control earlier this week, according to statements from his family.
Abdel Fattah, aged 43, was a prominent political prisoner in Egypt until his release seven weeks prior, following a pardon granted by President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi. On Tuesday, he reportedly attempted to travel to London with his sister, Sanaa, from Cairo International Airport but was informed by officials that he was not permitted to leave the country.
His sister, Sanaa, stated that she had to travel alone and that officials provided minimal explanation for the travel restriction. She confirmed that Abdel Fattah possesses both British and recently renewed Egyptian passports. Legal representatives in Egypt are reportedly seeking clarification on the grounds for the travel denial. The Egyptian government has not issued an immediate comment regarding the situation.
Abdel Fattah's 13-year-old son, Khaled, resides with his mother in Brighton, UK, where he attends a specialized school. Khaled had visited his father in Cairo after his release but has since returned to the UK. Sanaa Seif emphasized the importance of her brother's freedom of movement for him to reunite with his son, stating the need for stability in Khaled's life.
The UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) confirmed communication with Abdel Fattah's family on the matter. The FCDO released a statement acknowledging President Sisi's decision to pardon and release Abdel Fattah. They further stated their ongoing efforts to secure his return to the UK, affirming that the case remains a priority for the UK government at the highest levels of engagement with Egyptian authorities.