Front, from left: UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (left) with Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi (centre) and  Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi (right). ARCHIVE

The UAE’s leaders have ordered the release of 1,413 inmates from correctional and punitive institutions across the country ahead of Eid Al Adha. The humanitarian gesture is aimed at giving eligible prisoners a second chance and allowing them to reunite with their families during one of Islam’s most important religious holidays. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan ordered the release of 956 inmates from correctional institutions nationwide. He also directed that any financial obligations arising from their sentences be settled, easing their reintegration into society. In Ajman, Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, ordered the release of 230 inmates who met conditions for pardon after demonstrating good conduct during their sentences. Major General Sheikh Sultan bin Abdullah Al Nuaimi, Commander-in-Chief of Ajman Police, thanked the ruler for the gesture and said authorities would immediately begin release procedures. In Sharjah, Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi ordered the release of 227 inmates from the emirate’s Punishment and Correctional Institution after they met legal and behavioural requirements for clemency. The coordinated announcements came as the UAE officially confirmed the start of Eid Al Adha following the sighting of the crescent moon marking the beginning of Dhu Al Hijja, the final month of the Islamic calendar. Authorities confirmed the moon was sighted on May 17, making May 18 the first day of Dhu Al Hijja. Under the Islamic calendar, the Hajj pilgrimage begins on the eighth day of the month, which falls on May 25 this year. Arafat Day, considered the holiest day of Hajj, will fall on May 26, while Eid Al Adha will begin on May 27. ICA/Expat Media
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