Three New Zealanders have been detained in the United Arab Emirates as part of an investigation into drug crimes.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade says the arrests were made as part of an investigation into drug related offences but formal charges have not been laid.
The UAE has strict drug laws - sentences for trafficking can include the death penalty - and possession of even the smallest amount of narcotics carries a minimum sentence of four years in prison.
The Ministry says consular staff have met the detainees three times since they were arrested to check on their well-being.
The trio are expected to appear in court in Sharjah, near Dubai, on Monday.
