Trades workshops put prisoners back on the straight and narrow

Prisoners are using handicrafts to keep busy and earn an income that can go towards settling debts or supporting their families.

In workshops abuzz with activity at Dubai Central Prison in Al Aweer, inmates make trinkets, furniture and even motorbikes – all of which end up on sale in Dubai and online.

Maj Adel Mubarak, head of inmates affairs at the Ministry of Interior, said that allowing prisoners to use their time constructively was important for their rehabilitation.

“They are not here only for the punishment. That is an old-fashioned concept,” Maj Mubarak said. “These inmates are part of families that wait for their return, and the prison aims to help them return reformed and skilled with a craft that can help them make a living.”

The products they make – including office desks, dining and coffee tables, chairs, toys, jewellery boxes and clothes – are sold at outlets in Dubai, such as Global Village, Carrefour supermarkets and bazaars organised by government and private organisations.

Maj Mubarak said that the items were also posted for sale on social media by Dubai Police.

Lt Col Mohammed Al Falasi, director of supplies and services for prisons, said about 150 of the 2,000 prison population were involved in making the items and 5 per cent of the profit from sales went back to them, adding to their monthly salary of Dh250.

“They also get numerous supportive gifts and we try to provide them with anything they need,” Lt Col Al Falasi said.

“If any of them have served their term and need a ticket to fly home, we provide him with one. If any of them have an outstanding fine or blood money, we also help pay it.”

Lt Ali Abdullah, who supervises the workshops, said that the door was open to all inmates.

“It’s optional and even those who come to us and do not have any knowledge or experience, we train them well before they join the workforce at the workshops,” Lt Abdullah said.

He said that the ministry had recently teamed up with Al Futtaim Group, which provided the jail with motorbikes used to teach prisoners how to assemble and fix them.

Last week, the prisons department at the ministry organised an exhibition of the products made by inmates across the UAE to coincide with the International Day of Prisoners.

Offerings included handicrafts, traditional products, accessories, carpentry and furniture.

Government officials say paid work is an important part of inmates’ rehabilitation process