UAE leaders order release of over 4,700 prisoners for Ramadan

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UAE leaders order release of 4,700 prisoners for Ramadan

February 19, 2026

UAE leaders order release of over 3,800 prisoners for Ramadan — A prison in UAE. Photo: AP

DUBAI,— Leaders across the United Arab Emirates have ordered the release of 4,700 prisoners to mark the start of the holy month of Ramadan, the Emirates News Agency reported on Wednesday.

In Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, ordered the release of 1,856 prisoners of various nationalities from correctional and punitive institutions in the emirate, Emirate News Agency reported.

Chancellor Essam Issa Al Humaidan, Attorney General of Dubai, said the decision reflects Sheikh Mohammed’s aim to bring happiness to the prisoners’ families and give those released a chance to begin a new life and reintegrate into society.

He said Dubai Public Prosecution, working with Dubai Police, has started the legal steps needed to carry out the order.

In Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan ordered the release of 1,440 inmates from correctional institutions across the country, WAM reported.

The UAE President also pledged to settle any financial obligations resulting from the prisoners’ sentences.

The agency said the move shows the President’s commitment to offering inmates an opportunity for a fresh start and easing the difficulties faced by their families, supporting their stability and bringing comfort to relatives during Ramadan.

In Ras Al Khaimah, Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, ordered the release of 407 prisoners from the emirate’s correctional and punitive establishments.

He also pledged to settle their financial liabilities on the occasion of Ramadan.

The decision aims to help pardoned inmates start a new life and support stability for their families.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Crown Prince of Ras Al Khaimah, directed authorities to complete the necessary legal procedures to implement the order.

Hasan Saeed Mehaimed, Attorney General of Ras Al Khaimah, said the gesture reflects the ruler’s intention to give inmates a chance to reintegrate into society and bring happiness to their families during the holy month.

In Fujairah, Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Fujairah, ordered the release of 125 prisoners from punitive and correctional institutions.

The inmates, who are of different nationalities, were selected based on good conduct and behavior, WAM said.

Major General Mohammed bin Ghanim Al Kaabi, Commander in Chief of Fujairah Police, thanked the ruler for the decision and expressed hope that those released would begin new lives, contribute to society and maintain good conduct.

In Sharjah, Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, pardoned 738 inmates at the emirate’s correctional and punitive institutions. WAM reported that the inmates were selected for their good behavior.

In Ajman, Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, ordered the release of 134 prisoners from correctional and punitive facilities in the emirate. WAM said the inmates, of various nationalities, were selected based on good conduct and behavior. The ruler’s gesture aims to give the prisoners a chance to start a new life and bring joy to their families.

The announcements were made as the country prepares to observe Ramadan.

The total number of prisoners released is not fully clear, as some leaders have called for releases across the country. Based on the reported figures, the total is estimated at 4,700.

(With files from WAM)