Rulers across the UAE pardoned hundreds of prisoners ahead of the country's 49th National Day.
President Sheikh Khalifa ordered the release of more than 600 prisoners. He also cleared the debts of 628 inmates, who were jailed for various crimes.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, the Vice President and Ruler of Dubai also ordered the early release of 472 prisoners in the emirate.
The Ruler of Ajman, Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid, pardoned 49 prisoners in the emirate.
Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, ordered the release of 219 prisoners in the emirate.
Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mu'alla, Ruler of Umm Al Quwain, also reprieved a number of prisoners.
The Rulers of the Emirates traditionally pardon hundreds of prisoners during national holidays, including Ramadan and Eid.
National Day in the UAE is celebrated on December 2 each year. It marks the day the emirates banded together at Union House – now Etihad Museum – to form the United Arab Emirates in 1971. Sheikh Zayed, the Founding Father, was the country’s first president.
Public and private-sector workers will get a three-day break from December 1 to 3 to mark two important occasions: Commemoration Day; and the country's 49th National Day.
