UAE leaders order the release of thousands of prisoners before Union Day.

In a significant move ahead of the UAE's Union Day, leaders across the emirates have ordered the release of thousands of prisoners. These pardons were granted to inmates who fulfilled eligibility criteria related to their conduct and time served.

Union Day, known locally as Eid Al Etihad, is celebrated on December 2 to mark the 1971 unification of the seven emirates under one national flag.

The coordinated release plans involve inmates of various nationalities. In Dubai, Vice-President, Prime Minister, and Ruler Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum directed authorities to release 2,025 prisoners, with administrative procedures currently underway to facilitate their departure.

Meanwhile, UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan authorized the release of 2,937 inmates across the country, also covering any outstanding fines linked to their sentences. Such measures are customarily announced before national celebrations and are executed in collaboration with judicial and security agencies in each emirate.

Other emirates issued separate directives. In Ajman, Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi approved the release of 225 prisoners. In Fujairah, Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi ordered 129 inmates who demonstrated good behavior and met time-served requirements to be freed, enabling them to spend the holiday with their families.

Sharjah authorities reported that Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi sanctioned the release of 366 inmates from the Sharjah Punitive and Correctional Institution, all of whom satisfied the conduct and sentence-completion criteria.

In Ras Al Khaimah, Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi directed the release of 854 inmates, with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Saud Saqr Al Qasimi overseeing the legal and administrative steps to implement the order.

Officials emphasized that these releases aim to reinforce family bonds and provide eligible prisoners with the opportunity to reintegrate into society following the completion of necessary legal procedures.

Author: Sophia Brooks