Experienced Sexual Harassment from a Ride App Driver in Dubai — Need Advice

Hi, I’m (m20) currently visiting Dubai, and something terrifying happened to me. I want to share my experience and ask for advice because I’m traumatized and unsure about what to do next.

My aunt, who lives here, booked me a ride to visit my other aunt’s house at Sharjah. I was alone in the car. The moment I got in, the driver started complimenting me and immediately guessed my nationality (Filipino). He began asking personal questions like if I have a girlfriend or how many girlfriends I have. I lied to avoid the conversation. Then he asked if same-sex couples were allowed in my country. I told him yes, but marriage wasn’t legal.

Shortly after, he invited me to sit in the front seat. Foolishly, I agreed because I liked his car and had never ridden in one like that before. But things got worse. He started commenting on my skin, saying it looked soft and that I looked very young. He then invited me to a party later that night.

I initially thought he was just being friendly, but it quickly became clear he wasn’t. He started showing off his bulge, which made me extremely uncomfortable. Then, he asked if I wanted to hold it and even tried to grab my hand and force it toward him. I kept refusing and pulling away. He then asked how big I was and said he wanted to see it. I firmly said no, but he kept pressing and asked why.

I was scared and frozen. He had dark window tints, and we were still on the highway. He tried to grab my hand toward him again. I was panicked but kept saying no and trying to stay calm. He insisted on taking me to a party and gave me his number (which I kept as evidence).

When we reached the highway near Sharjah, he suddenly removed his window tint, mentioning it wasn’t allowed there. I stayed composed until the ride ended, but inside, I was terrified.

Now, I feel completely traumatized and don’t know what to do. Can I report him even though I’m just a tourist? Will I get into trouble for anything if I report him? What could happen if I report him to the police or the ride app? I kept his number, and I can still see the ride details in the app.

I really need advice. I don’t want anyone else to experience this. What should I do?