In a sweeping humanitarian gesture marking the nation’s 54th Union Day celebrations, UAE rulers have collectively ordered the release of more than 6,500 prisoners across all seven emirates. The mass pardon initiative, a longstanding tradition during national festivities, demonstrates the leadership’s commitment to social harmony and rehabilitation.
President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan spearheaded the compassionate move by authorizing the release of 2,937 inmates from correctional facilities nationwide. In an extraordinary extension of clemency, the President further committed to settling all financial penalties owed by the pardoned individuals.
Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, contributed significantly to the initiative by ordering the liberation of 2,025 detainees from the emirate’s penal institutions. Simultaneously, other emirates joined the nationwide effort: Ras Al Khaimah released 854 inmates, Sharjah pardoned 366 prisoners, Ajman freed 225 individuals, and Fujairah granted clemency to 129 detainees.
The beneficiary selection process followed stringent criteria, prioritizing inmates who had demonstrated exemplary conduct and rehabilitation progress. Eligibility requirements included serving a substantial portion of their sentence and exclusion from those convicted of severe criminal offenses. This careful vetting process ensures the initiative supports genuine rehabilitation while maintaining public safety.
Correctional authorities across the emirates have begun coordinating the logistical implementation of the royal directives. The comprehensive pardon program aims not only to provide second chances to reformed individuals but also to reunite families and reinforce social cohesion during the national celebrations. This tradition reflects the UAE’s broader commitment to restorative justice and inclusive societal development.