This time of year is all about forgiveness…

Ramadan is expected to begin tomorrow, and over the weekend, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai ordered the release of 587 prisoners in Dubai. The announcement comes from the official state news agency, WAM. 

The annual pardoning of prisoners before the start of Ramadan is a tradition that has been in the UAE for decades.

Those released come from different nationalities from Dubai’s correctional and punitive establishments.

Attorney General of Dubai Chancellor, Essam Issa Al Humaidan said that His Highness’ order to pardon the prisoners will bring happiness to their families, and help the pardoned individuals get a fresh start in life and reintegrate into the community.

Legal procedures have already begun to implement Sheikh Mohammed’s orders.

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The announcement comes after the President of the UAE HH Sheikh Khalifa ordered the release of more than 3,000 prisoners ahead of Ramadan and pledged to settle their debts.

WHY NOW?

Forgiveness is a big part of Ramadan – it’s a time when Muslims are encouraged to seek forgiveness for bad behaviour so they can start Eid with a renewed and fresh sense of purpose. It is also a time when people are encouraged to forgive those around them – because forgiveness and moving on are a key part of the Quranic teachings.

Remember, Islam teaches that Allah is ‘Al Ghaffur’ – or the ‘oft-forgiving’ – and it is believed that an individual’s good deeds should be weighed against their bad (rather than judging someone just based on their wrongdoings).

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Images: Getty