Eid Al Adha: Ruler of Dubai orders release of 520 inmates

Move follows freeing of more than 800 a day earlier by Sheikh Khalifa

Two inmates play table tennis at Dubai Central Prison in Al Awir. More than 500 will be released on the occasion of Eid Al Adha.

More than 500 prisoners in Dubai will be released as part of a series of pardons coinciding with Eid Al Adha.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, said 520 inmates of various nationalities would go free.

In a statement on his official website, he said the ruling would give an “opportunity to people who made a mistake” to move on with their lives.

Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, also ordered the release of 174 prisoners, and Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, ordered the release of 225.

Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, Ruler of Umm al Qaiwain, pardoned a number of inmates on Wednesday, although authorities did not provide a number.

The Rulers of the Emirates free prisoners on religious occasions, of which Eid Al Adha is one of the most significant.

Inmates are released for a range of reasons. The freed prisoners typically include many who have committed minor offences and financial crimes, or who have shown good behaviour throughout their sentences.

On Tuesday, President Sheikh Khalifa pardoned 855 prisoners ahead of the Eid holidays.

Eid Al Adha starts in the UAE next week. Employees will enjoy a long weekend with fireworks, parades and other events to mark the festivities.