President Sheikh Mohamed has released 1,295 prisoners across the UAE ahead of Ramadan. The state news agency Wam also said Sheikh Mohamed would waive "any financial obligations incurred as part of the inmates’ sentences".
"The initiative reflects the UAE President’s commitment to offering inmates a fresh start, alleviating the hardships faced by their families, and fostering stability within their households and the local community," read a statement on Wam. "It also aims to bring joy to their loved ones during this blessed occasion."
UAE leaders typically offer amnesty to hundreds of inmates each year in keeping with the generous spirit of the holy month.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, released "1,518 prisoners of different nationalities from Dubai’s correctional and punitive establishments, ahead of the holy month of Ramadan", reported Dubai Media Office on Thursday afternoon. Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Ruler of Fujairah, ordered the release of 111 prisoners who have demonstrated good conduct.
Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, granted the release of 707 inmates, reported the Sharjah Government Media Bureau on Thursday. Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Ruler of Ajman, also ordered the release of 207 prisoners, while Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, ordered the release of 506 inmates.
The UAE has called on the public to search for the crescent moon on Friday evening, to determine the start date of Ramadan. If a new crescent moon is seen, Ramadan will be declared to begin on Saturday. If a new moon is not seen, Ramadan will be declared on Sunday, the Moon Sighting Committee said.
Last year, more than 2,600 inmates from correctional and penal centres in the UAE were set free in the lead up to the holy month.
