Dubai Ruler frees 674 prisoners and clears housing loans for Emiratis

The rulers of Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah also called for inmates serving time for minor crimes to be released

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid recently said 2020 to be the year of preparing for the 50 years ahead. Wam
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Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid ordered the release of hundreds of prisoners on Wednesday, in celebration of National Day.

The Vice President and Ruler of Dubai called for 674 inmates serving sentences for minor crimes to be freed.

Rulers traditionally pardon hundreds of prisoners during Ramadan, religious and public holidays to alleviate the suffering of their families and to allow the inmates an opportunity to reintegrate into society, reported state news agency Wam.

Inmates are typically chosen due to good behaviour, along with those jailed for financial crimes and debts.

President Sheikh Khalifa ordered 662 inmates go free on Tuesday.

Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Ruler of Fujairah, pardoned 86 prisoners too while the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, called for 297 inmates to be freed - all to coincide with National Day.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid also ordered the Department of Finance to waive outstanding home loans worth Dh173 million of Emiratis in Abu Hail area in Deira. The Dh392 million project has 390 villas owned by 600 Emiratis.

Clearing the loans is part of efforts to free citizens from financial burdens and enhance their welfare and happiness, Wam said.