UAE pardons thousands of prisoners

dubai — Hundreds of prisoners in the UAE have received royal pardon ahead of the holy month of Ramadan.

The President, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has ordered the release of 1,511 prisoners serving various sentences. He also pledged to settle the financial obligations of the released prisoners. The gesture is part of Sheikh Khalifa’s humanitarian initiatives to give the prisoners

an opportunity to start a new chapter in their life and positively contribute to the service of their families and communities.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, ordered the release of 874 inmates. The Attorney-General of Dubai, Chancellor Essam Issa Al Humaidan, said that the gesture will bring happiness to their families, and help the pardoned individuals get a fresh start in life.

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, pardoned 369 inmates on account of good conduct and behaviour.

Rulers of other emirates also granted pardon to prisoners. His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuami, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ajman, ordered the release of 124 prisoners, while His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu’alla, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Umm Al Quwain, ordered the release of a number of prisoners.

His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, ordered the release of 584 inmates ahead of the holy month of Ramadan. Sheikh Saud also cleared the debts of the prisoners.

His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Fujairah, ordered the release of 72 inmates of different nationalities who have a proven track of good behaviour.