Apr.11 (GMM) Max Mosley has received a rare shot of support amid the sex scandal, in the form of the United Arab Emirates' automobile and touring club.

Despite widespread condemnation of the FIA president's involvement in a recent jaunt with five prostitutes, Mohammed ben Sulayem said he is a "full supporter" of the sanctity of an individual's private life.

The IATC (UAE) president is adamant that Mosley should keep his job amid the scandal, even though the region surrounding the Persian Gulf is not renowned for its moral liberality.

"I think (the scandal) has been used for the wrong reasons," ben Sulayem said, according to the Daily Telegraph.

"Surely he did not break the law. This is something that is allowed there. I am a full supporter.

"If someone wants to use this for the wrong reasons, it is not acceptable," he added.

Ben Sulayem points out that, while the motoring and racing worlds have been quick to denounce Mosley, very few figures have defended the 67-year-old Briton against the backdrop of his record as FIA chief.

"How fast can we forget what this man did for motor sport?" he asked.

"Where it was and where it is now. He did not commit anything that weakens the FIA. We as members of the FIA elected him."

Abu Dhabi, one of the seven emirates, will stage its inaugural grand prix late next season.

A government owned company also has a five per cent stake of Ferrari, and local developer Aldar Properties is building a multi-billion dollar F1 theme park on Yas Island.