The move aims to give them a fresh start in life…

Ahead of Eid Al Adha, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has ordered the release of 430 prisoners.

This comes after UAE President HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan announced the pardoning of 669 prisoners in Abu Dhabi. The prisoners were serving various sentences and the leader also pledged to settle any outstanding debts owed by the inmates.

Attorney General of Dubai His Excellency Essam Issa Al Humaidan said His Highness’s decision to pardon inmates is aimed at providing prisoners with an opportunity to start a new life and alleviating their families’ hardship, as well as giving them the opportunity to reintegrate themselves into society.

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Rulers of the UAE often pardon prisoners around religious holidays as a sign of forgiveness, with more than 4,000 prisoners released during Ramadan this year. Ruler of Ajman, Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, also agreed to free 70 prisoners from their sentences in Ajman and Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, the ruler of Sharjah has ordered the release of 400 prisoners.

The inmates selected have all shown signs of good behaviour, and are considered safe to be placed back into society. Many include those who have been jailed for financial crimes or debts.

Eid Al Adha holidays have been declared for the public and private sectors, with four days off for residents to enjoy a break. From Saturday August 10, to Tuesday August 13, employees are entitled to public holiday days off, returning to work on Wednesday August 14.

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Image: Getty