UAE Leaders Grant Historic Pardons to Over 6,500 Inmates for National Day Celebrations
November 28, 2025
Officials describe the pardon as the largest in Dubai's history, underscoring national values and the spirit of the Union.
Other UAE rulers joined in pardons: President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan freed 2,937 inmates nationwide and offered to cover their outstanding financial penalties; Ajman ruler Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi freed 225 inmates; Fujairah ruler Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi freed 129 inmates; and Sharjah ruler Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi freed 366 prisoners ahead of Eid Al Etihad.
Ras Al Khaimah ruler Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi ordered the release of 854 inmates ahead of the UAE National Day from the emirate’s correctional and punitive institutions.
Ahead of UAE National Day, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum ordered the release of 2,025 inmates from Dubai's correctional and punitive establishments.
The pardoned prisoners were selected based on good conduct, progress toward sentence completion, time served, and lack of involvement in serious offences, with a focus on enabling reintegration into society.
Dubai Public Prosecution, in collaboration with Dubai Police, has begun implementing the pardon. widening the legal procedures.
The pardons are part of Eid Al Etihad celebrations and reflect leadership commitment to easing families' burdens and giving released individuals a chance to rebuild their lives.
The pardons aim to bring joy to families during national celebrations and reaffirm the leadership’s commitment to second chances and social reintegration.
Attorney General Essam Issa Al Humaidan stated the pardon seeks to give inmates an opportunity to reintegrate into society while upholding the law.
In keeping with Union Day traditions, UAE leadership frequently pardons inmates to demonstrate generosity and promote social harmony and inclusivity.
Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, who chairs the Judicial Council, ordered swift completion of all procedures for the release, coordinating with Ras Al Khaimah Police to implement the pardon.
The release includes inmates of different nationalities.
Summary based on 3 sources
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Sources

Gulf News: Latest UAE news, Dubai news, Business, travel news, Dubai Gold rate, prayer time, cinema • Nov 27, 2025
Ras Al Khaimah Ruler pardons 854 inmates ahead of UAE National Day
Gulf News: Latest UAE news, Dubai news, Business, travel news, Dubai Gold rate, prayer time, cinema • Nov 27, 2025
Sheikh Mohammed orders release of 2,025 prisoners ahead of 54th UAE National Day
Khaleej Times • Nov 27, 2025
UAE National Day: Dubai Ruler orders release of over 2,000 prisoners