UAE Changes Rules for Release of Prisoners Facing Life Sentence

Sharjah’s Executive Council has issued a new decision allowing conditional release for prisoners under specific criteria.

Announced on Tuesday, the decision permits inmates to be considered for parole after serving three-fourths of their sentence. Parole would involve certain restrictions and could be granted for one month or longer.

For those sentenced to life imprisonment, conditional release may be granted after serving a minimum of 20 years.

The decision to release an inmate conditionally will rest with the Commander-in-Chief of Sharjah Police, with notification provided to the emirate’s public prosecution.

The ruling also specifies the conditions for granting parole, potential obstacles to release, reasons for cancellation, associated executive procedures, and the enforcement and publication measures.