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On March 21, 2023, UAE President H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan ordered the release of 1,025 prisoners serving various sentences in the UAE, ahead of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

It is not uncommon for UAE leaders to pardon prisoners during this time of the year. Last year, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai ordered the release of 553 prisoners from Dubai’s correctional facilities.

The release of the prisoners is a clear reflection of President Mohamed’s humanitarian initiatives and highlights the values of forgiveness and tolerance. Not only will this give the pardoned inmates a new lease on life, it will ease not only their suffering but their families, too.

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It’s a time when Muslims around the world abstain from eating, drinking and smoking between sunrise and sunset. Lasting around a month, it marks the time when the Qur’an was first revealed to the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). 

The expected date for Ramadan 2023 is Thursday, March 2023. This will be confirmed on the evening of Tuesday, March 21, 2023 when the UAE Moon Sighting Committee will meet.

During the Holy Month of Ramadan, the private and public sectors work a reduced number of hours. There are plenty of celebrations that go around the country from iftars to night markets, fireworks, and much more. One longstanding tradition you do not want to miss is the Ramadan cannons which you can find across Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Lend a helping hand this Ramadan

While a significant part of Ramadan is spending time with family at one of the many iftars, there are a number of ways to help the less fortunate. Remember, this season is one for reflection, spirituality and giving back and Zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam where Muslims are taught to give a certain percentage of their wealth to charity.

If you can donate, make sure you choose one of the approved campaigns. Some of the initiatives are listed here.

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