UAE Leaders Announce Release of Over 3,000 Prisoners for Eid Al Adha
In a gesture of goodwill and celebration, UAE authorities grant pardons, marking the significant religious holiday.
In a significant gesture aligned with the spirit of Eid Al Adha, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed ordered the release of 963 prisoners on Tuesday, a move that underscores the country's tradition of clemency during major religious occasions.
This release is part of a broader initiative, as Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, the Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, also announced the pardon of 985 inmates from various nationalities.
In total, this brings the number of pardoned individuals to over 3,000 when including additional orders from local rulers across the emirates.
Other emirate leaders contributing to this initiative include Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Ruler of Fujairah, who sanctioned the release of 112 prisoners; Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, releasing 411 inmates; Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, who pardoned 439 prisoners; and Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Ruler of Ajman, who ordered the release of 225 inmates.
Furthermore, President Sheikh Mohamed has pledged to cover the fines of those inmates being released, further enhancing the impact of this goodwill gesture.
Eid Al Adha, also known as the “festival of sacrifice,” is one of the two major Islamic holidays celebrated in the Arab world, the other being Eid Al Fitr.
This holiday commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail as an act of obedience to God, serving as a test of faith.
The festivities provide an opportunity for family gatherings, sharing meals, and reflecting on personal and communal values.
During this period, it is customary for families who are financially able to slaughter goats or sheep, sharing the meat with relatives and those in need.
To observe this occasion, employees across both public and private sectors in the UAE will be granted a holiday starting from Thursday, June 5, up to Sunday, June 8, with work resuming on Monday, June 9. The release of prisoners and the observance of Eid Al Adha illustrate the UAE's commitment to compassion and social welfare during significant religious observances.