UAE leaders order release of thousands of prisoners to mark National Day

The move is to allow prisoners to reintegrate into society and reduce the suffering of their families

President Sheikh Mohamed has ordered the release of 1,530 prisoners. Chris Whiteoak / The National

Thousands of prisoners across the emirates will be released after being pardoned ahead of the country's 51st National Day.

On Tuesday, President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed ordered the release of 1,530 prisoners.

The move reflects Sheikh Mohamed's interest in granting the pardoned prisoners a fresh opportunity in life and a chance to correct their mistakes, said news agency Wam.

It will help to reduce the suffering of the families of the prisoners.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, ordered 1,040 inmates to be released from prisons in the emirate.

Sharjah Ruler Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi pardoned 333 prisoners.

Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Ruler of Fujairah, has also ordered the release of 153 prisoners. The inmates of various nationalities were selected based on their good conduct.

Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Ruler of Ajman, has asked authorities in the emirate to release 111 prisoners.

Ras Al Khaimah ruler Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, has ordered the release of 417 prisoners who were serving varying sentences.

UAE leaders typically offer pardons to hundreds of inmates each year on important occasions such as National Day, Ramadan and Eid.

These humanitarian efforts are aimed to rehabilitate prisoners.