A Canadian man detained in the United Arab Emirates for nearly two years has returned home to Canada.
Salim Alaradi arrived at Toronto’s Pearson Airport Monday evening.
READ MORE: Canadian detained in U.A.E. still faces legal battle after terrorism charges dropped
Speaking with reporters upon his arrival, surrounded by his wife and children, Alaradi thanked his family for their support through the ordeal.
He also thanked his lawyers, the Canadian government and U.N. Human Rights staff, for working to support him and secure his release.
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“Specifically those in the Canadian Embassy staff in the U.A.E., who visited me so often, they were my lifeline.”
Alaradi immigrated to Canada in 1998 from the U.A.E. but returned there in 2007 to run a home appliance business. He was on vacation with his family in Dubai when he was arrested in August 2014.
He was charged with terrorism offences related to funding, supporting and co-operating with terrorist organizations.
Acquitted of all charges on May 30, Alaradi was released from Abu Dhabi prison on May 31. After clearing more legal red tape with the help of Canadian officials, Alaradi went to Turkey for medical treatment, where he was reunited with his family.
READ MORE: UN calls for release Canadian man detained in U.A.E. who was allegedly tortured
Alaradi said he now needs time to recover and seek further medical treatment. He will return with his family to their Windsor, Ont., home.
“I am looking forward to settling in with my family and enjoying a Canadian summer with them. We really need this time to rebuild our life.”
Alaradi declined to speak about his treatment in prison, but the U.N. has said it has “credible information” that he was tortured in order to force a confession.
He said Monday he felt reborn upon his release from prison.
“It’s a new life for me.”
With files from the Canadian Press
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