The President of the United Arab Emirates, Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has ordered the release of 1,295 prisoners from various countries on the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan. Along with their release, he has also directed assistance in clearing any outstanding debts as a goodwill gesture for Ramadan.
The announcement was made on Thursday, February 27, through UAE media. The President stated that he hopes the released individuals will be able to start a new life and that their families will be relieved from the hardships they have faced.
It is a common practice for UAE leaders to grant clemency to prisoners during religious and national occasions. Last year, ahead of Ramadan, the UAE President ordered the release of 735 prisoners.
Meanwhile, the International Astronomy Center in Abu Dhabi has reported that Ramadan in the Arab world is expected to begin on March 1, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. If the moon is not visible on February 28, Ramadan will commence on March 2.