New Delhi/Abu Dhabi: In a significant development, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced that it will release 900 Indian nationals from prisons in that country.
The UAE has handed over a list of these people to the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi, as reported by ANI. This is as part of an order passed by the country in November 2025.
On November 27, the UAE president, in an official order shared on his website, mentioned that 2,937 inmates had been released ahead of Eid Al Etihad.
The UAE celebrates Eid Al Etihad on December 2 to mark the day in 1971 when the emirates united under one flag.
“President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has ordered the release of 2,937 inmates from correctional institutions in the UAE. His Highness has also pledged to cover the financial penalties incurred by the inmates as part of their sentences. Coinciding with the UAE’s 54th Eid Al Etihad celebrations, the directive reflects His Highness’ commitment to giving the released inmates a fresh start in life, easing the burden on their families, and bringing joy to their loved ones,” it was said in the statement.
It was further noted that the initiative was part of the president’s broader efforts to promote stability, social cohesion, and opportunities for rehabilitation.
India and the UAE have longstanding ties.
On Monday, UAE Zayed Al Nahyan paid an official visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It marked his fifth visit in the last 10 years and his third official visit as president of the UAE.
The visit saw the signing of a Letter of Intent towards the conclusion of a Strategic Defence Partnership.
Modi and Zayed Al Nahyan exchanged views on regional and global issues of mutual interest. They underlined their shared interest in regional peace, security and stability. They noted excellent cooperation and mutual support at multilateral and plurilateral fora. The UAE side conveyed its full support for the success of India’s BRICS Chairmanship in 2026.
India conveyed its support for the 2026 UN Water Conference, to be co-hosted by the UAE at the end of the year, which will focus on accelerating the implementation of SDG 6, ensuring the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) noted in the statement on its visit.
