UAE Pardons Thousands for National Day

Over 6,500 Convicts Pardoned for UAE National Day

The United Arab Emirates is once again celebrating its anniversary with a touching gesture. The country's rulers have granted pardons to over 6,500 convicts for the 2025 Eid Al Etihad, or the 54th Union Day. This humane step reflects the UAE's societal values: the forward-thinking embrace of forgiveness, the opportunity for new beginnings, and the support of communal solidarity.

Linking celebration with clemency is a long-standing tradition

The UAE leaders have not used this gesture for the first time. The mass clemency decrees on the occasion of the Union Day have been a tradition for many years in the country. It highlights not only the national unity and joy of the celebration but also provides a concrete opportunity for convicts to start a new life. This initiative gives hope, happiness, and the chance to thousands of families every year for their loved ones to return home.

Dubai: Over two thousand prisoners may be freed

This year, Dubai's ruler ordered the release of 2,025 convicts of various nationalities from the city's correctional facilities. The individuals in question exhibited good behavior and met the conditions under which clemency could be awarded: among other things, they had already served a significant portion of their sentence and were not involved in serious crimes.

This gesture bears not only legal but moral messages as well: it offers an opportunity for a fresh start, while also serving as a reminder that good behavior and remorse matter—and can be rewarded.

National commitment to social reintegration

The President of the Emirates, the leader of Abu Dhabi, decided on the release of 2,937 prisoners from various correctional facilities in the country. Moreover, the state committed to settling the fines related to the released individuals as well, eliminating one of the biggest barriers to reintegration.

This step is particularly significant as fines in many cases prevent convicts from being released for long years. By taking over these costs, the leadership sends a clear message: they support reentry into society and do not wish to impose further financial burdens on individuals who have shown remorse.

Ajman, Fujairah, and Sharjah also join the measure

Ajman's ruler pardoned 225 convicts. Fujairah’s leader decided on the release of a further 129 convicts. In the emirate of Sharjah, 366 inmates were granted the opportunity to become part of society again.

The Sharjah media center confirmed that the decision applies to those convicts who, in addition to good behavior, have already served a certain time of their sentence. This also demonstrates that the clemency was preceded by individual consideration and comprehensive evaluation—not an automatic release.

Ras Al Khaimah: More than 850 people get a second chance

Ras Al Khaimah emirate significantly contributed to the joint initiative with the release of 854 prisoners convicted in various cases. The decision aims to alleviate the suffering of the affected families and offers a chance to close the past and start anew.

The implementation of the pardon is coordinated by the Ras Al Khaimah police and the judiciary council to ensure the release proceeds smoothly and legally. The crown prince, who is also the president of the judiciary council, personally instructed the offices to carry out the process.

Social and psychological impact: more than an administrative decision

Although the clemency decisions occur within legal frameworks, their impact extends beyond the prison walls. Thousands of families regained their loved ones during the national holiday—marking immense psychological relief and happiness for them. Children can hug their fathers or mothers again, and parents can be reunited with their sons and daughters. The opportunity to celebrate together often becomes a lifelong experience—a gift that also serves the social peace and strengthens trust.

International message: UAE advocates a second chance

The decision of the authorities to grant a second chance to thousands of convicts sends a clear international message: the UAE believes not in punishment but in social progress and reintegration. The country's goal is not only maintaining order and legality but also ensuring that those who erred can learn from their mistakes and become useful members of the community again.

This philosophy contributes to the stability, peace, and social cohesion of the UAE, setting an example for many other countries.

Closing thought

The 54th birthday of the United Arab Emirates is marked not only by spectacular celebrations and flag waving, but it bears deep human content as well. The release of more than 6,500 convicts is one of the most significant humane measures in the entire region. A strong state applies not only law but also grace. The UAE proves year after year that the heart and the law can walk hand in hand.

(The article's source is based on UAE rulers' statements.)