Outline:
Celebrating World Inmate Day: A Step Toward Rehabilitation and Reintegration
Abu Dhabi has taken significant steps in promoting the concept of restorative justice through a special event held on the occasion of World Inmate Day. This initiative, organized by the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD), aims to highlight the importance of rehabilitation programs that support inmates in their journey toward reintegration into society.
The celebration was attended by various strategic partners and entities that play a crucial role in supporting these rehabilitation efforts. The event served as an opportunity to showcase the ongoing initiatives and the positive impact they have on the lives of those involved.
Vision and Commitment
Counselor Yousef Saeed Al Abri, Undersecretary of the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, emphasized that this celebration reflects the department’s commitment to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. This vision focuses on transforming correctional facilities into platforms for personal development and growth.
Al Abri pointed out that the department is dedicated to implementing comprehensive rehabilitation programs that address psychological, social, and vocational aspects. These programs are designed to build character and guide inmates toward a positive path after completing their sentences.
Real-Life Experiences and Success Stories
The official celebration at the Department’s headquarters began with a documentary film that showcased real-life experiences of several inmates. The film highlighted their journeys within correctional centers and the success stories made possible by integrated rehabilitation programs. These stories reflected the impact of these initiatives on rebuilding inmates’ personalities and motivating positive change.
Innovative Initiatives and Projects
The event also featured a presentation of initiatives and projects launched since the beginning of 2025 in partnership with the Authority of Social Contributions – Ma’an and Hayat Post-Care Association. Key initiatives included the Digital Creative Studio, which provides training in advanced graphic design and video editing. Additionally, the support of a Fine Arts Centre and programming training courses aimed at equipping inmates with modern digital skills.
Other notable programs included the Quran Memorization Program, which benefited over 500 male and female inmates. The “Travel Bag” project was also launched, providing inmates with essential supplies to help them start their new lives upon release.
Financial Aid and Educational Support
The event further highlighted the contributions of the “Faraj Fund,” which provided AED 1.2 million in financial aid to secure the release of financially distressed inmates in the first half of the year. Moreover, Higher Colleges of Technology initiatives provided job-market training benefiting 70 inmates, while the General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Zakat organized religious lectures and Quran competitions for more than 600 inmates.
Internal Activities and Recognition
Prior to the main celebration, internal activities were held at Al Wathba and Al Ain correctional centers. These activities included artistic and theatrical performances, cultural competitions, the honoring of graduates from the job readiness program, and academically outstanding inmates. The program also featured creative contributions and success stories from inmates, illustrating the positive transformation achieved through rehabilitation efforts.
Honoring Key Partners
At the conclusion of the event, the Judicial Department honored several partners and institutions supporting rehabilitation projects. These included the General Directorate of Penal and Correctional Institutions at the Ministry of Interior, the Authority of Social Contributions – Ma’an, Hayat Post-Care Association, Faraj Fund, Higher Colleges of Technology, the National Rehabilitation Center, Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, the General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, and the Emirates Red Crescent.
The honored entities expressed their pride in their constructive partnership with the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department and affirmed their commitment to continuing joint efforts to develop impactful programs that make a real difference in the lives of inmates and open new horizons for a stable future.