In a humanitarian gesture ahead of Eid Al Adha, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, joined by the Rulers of several Emirates, has ordered the release of thousands of inmates from correctional facilities across the country.The clemency measures aim to promote social stability, strengthen family bonds, and give eligible prisoners the opportunity to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society before the holiday.
At the federal level, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan ordered the release of 956 inmates and pledged to settle all financial obligations and court-imposed fines related to their sentences. 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 various nationalities.
In Ras Al Khaimah, Supreme Council Member and Ruler Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi approved the release of 443 inmates. In Ajman, Supreme Council Member and Ruler Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi directed the release of 230 prisoners. In Sharjah, Supreme Council Member and Ruler Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi ordered the release of 227 inmates. In Umm Al Quwain, Supreme Council Member and Ruler Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla approved the release of a number of prisoners ahead of the holiday.
In Fujairah, Supreme Council Member and Ruler Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi pardoned 104 inmates from the emirate’s correctional and rehabilitation institution, ordering the release of prisoners who have demonstrated eligibility and good conduct.
Authorities said the pardons reflect the leadership’s commitment to humanitarian values and family cohesion during significant religious occasions. Public prosecution departments and police authorities have begun implementing the necessary legal procedures to ensure inmates can reunite with their families before Eid celebrations commence. Officials noted that the pardons generally apply to inmates with good conduct records and those convicted of minor or financial offences, while serious crimes are typically excluded from seasonal clemency measures.
Eid Al Adha, known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar. It commemorates the spirit of sacrifice and coincides with the culmination of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Falling on the 10th day of Dhu Al Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar, the occasion is marked by communal prayers, family gatherings, the exchange of gifts, and acts of charity.
