’tis the season to give pardons

The sheikhly practice of pardoning prisoners on the occasion of Ramadan has seen large numbers in the Gulf set to be released – particularly in the UAE. This month Ras Al-Khaimah Ruler Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al-Qasimi ordered the release of 247 prisoners and promised to pay off their debts. Dubai’s Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum pardoned 730 inmates, Fujairah Ruler Sheikh Hamad Bin Mohammed Al-Sharqi released 29. In Ajman, Emir Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al-Nuaimi pardoned 62 prisoners. Umm Al-Quwain’s leader also ordered the release of prisoners although the number wasn’t given.