India-UAE Relations Strengthen as 900 Indian Prisoners to Be Released: President Nahyan Submits List

Dubai: The United Arab Emirates (UAE) government has handed over a list of over 900 Indian nationals currently imprisoned in the country, who are set to be released. The list was submitted to officials at the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi, following an order by UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The release of these prisoners comes under a directive issued last November, covering Indian citizens as well as prisoners from several other countries. The move coincides with a period of strengthened bilateral relations between India and the UAE. Recently, President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Delhi, marking a successful and significant diplomatic engagement.

Last year, on 27 November, President Mohammed bin Zayed had announced that on the occasion of Eid Al-Etihad, the UAE’s National Day, a total of 2,937 prisoners would be released from UAE jails worldwide. Eid Al-Etihad, celebrated on 2 December, commemorates the unification of the Emirates under a single national flag in 1971.

UAE Government to Cover Fines
The UAE authorities have also paid the fines imposed on these prisoners, ensuring their return home without any financial burden. Many Indian families had struggled to pay these fines, which were often imposed for visa overstays, minor labor disputes, or financial oversights. The UAE government stated that this initiative is part of broader efforts to promote stability, social cohesion, and rehabilitation opportunities.

The transfer of this prisoner list comes shortly after President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed’s brief but successful visit to India. During the visit, he held discussions with Prime Minister Modi, signed a strategic defense partnership, and explored plans to expand bilateral trade to $200 billion by 2032.