ABU DHABI— UAE rulers have ordered the release of more than 2,600 prisoners ahead of Eid Al-Adha in a series of pardons reflecting the country’s emphasis on compassion, forgiveness and social reintegration during major Islamic holidays.
President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan ordered the release of 956 inmates from correctional institutions across the UAE and pledged to settle financial obligations linked to their sentences.
The move, announced ahead of the Eid holiday, is part of a longstanding tradition in the Gulf state of granting pardons to selected prisoners who meet conditions related to conduct and rehabilitation.
In Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, ordered the release of 836 prisoners of different nationalities from correctional and punitive establishments in the emirate.
Essam Issa Al-Humaidan said the pardon aimed to give inmates an opportunity to begin a new life and reunite with their families.
In Ras Al Khaimah, Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi ordered the release of 443 inmates who had met pardon conditions following rehabilitation programmes.
Officials in the emirate said the gesture reflected values of forgiveness and tolerance rooted in Emirati society and would allow inmates to spend the holiday with their families.
Meanwhile, in Sharjah, Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi ordered the release of 227 inmates from the emirate’s Punishment and Correctional Institution.
In Ajman, Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi ordered the release of 230 inmates who had demonstrated good conduct during their sentences.
Major General Sheikh Sultan bin Abdullah Al Nuaimi said procedures to implement the order had begun immediately.
Separately, Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla ordered the release of a number of prisoners from corrective and punitive institutions in Umm Al Quwain ahead of Eid Al-Adha.
Authorities across the UAE said the pardons were intended to offer inmates a chance to reintegrate into society while bringing relief and happiness to their families during Eid Al-Adha.
