Abu Dhabi’s World Inmate Day: Empowering Lives Through Rehabilitation
The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) recently hosted a vibrant event to commemorate World Inmate Day, showcasing its unwavering commitment to restorative justice and innovative inmate rehabilitation programs. This celebration, held in alignment with the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Chairman of the ADJD, underscores the department’s mission to transform correctional facilities into hubs for personal growth and societal reintegration. The event, attended by key strategic partners and organizations, highlighted pioneering initiatives designed to empower inmates with skills, hope, and opportunities for a brighter future.
A Vision for Restorative Justice
Under the guidance of Counsellor Yousef Saeed Al Abri, Undersecretary of the ADJD, the event emphasized the department’s dedication to redefining the role of correctional centres. Far from being mere detention facilities, these centres are evolving into platforms for personal development, equipping inmates with the tools to rebuild their lives and contribute positively to society. The celebration served as a testament to the UAE’s progressive approach to inmate rehabilitation, focusing on empowerment, education, and reintegration.
The event kicked off with a compelling documentary film that brought to life the transformative journeys of inmates within Abu Dhabi’s correctional facilities. Through heartfelt stories, the film showcased how integrated rehabilitation programs have sparked positive change, helping inmates rediscover their potential and embrace new beginnings. These success stories resonated deeply with attendees, highlighting the profound impact of the ADJD’s initiatives on rebuilding personalities and fostering hope.
Innovative Initiatives for Empowerment
Since the start of 2025, the ADJD has rolled out a series of groundbreaking initiatives in collaboration with partners like the Authority of Social Contributions – Ma’an and the Hayat Post-Care Association. These programs are designed to equip inmates with modern skills that align with today’s job market, ensuring they are well-prepared for life after release.
One standout initiative is the Digital Creative Studio, which offers training in advanced graphic design and video editing. This program empowers inmates to harness digital skills, opening doors to creative and tech-driven career opportunities. Similarly, the Fine Arts Centre provides a platform for inmates to explore their artistic talents, fostering self-expression and personal growth. Additionally, programming training courses have been introduced to teach inmates coding and software development, equipping them with highly sought-after skills in the digital age.
The Quran Memorisation Programme has also been a cornerstone of the ADJD’s rehabilitation efforts, benefiting over 500 male and female inmates. This initiative not only promotes spiritual growth but also instills discipline and a sense of purpose. Another notable project, the Travel Bag initiative, ensures that inmates leaving correctional facilities are provided with essential supplies to ease their transition back into society. These items, ranging from clothing to personal care products, help inmates start their new lives with dignity.
Financial and Educational Support
The ADJD’s commitment to inmate welfare extends beyond skill-building programs. The Faraj Fund, a key initiative, provided Dhs1.2 million in financial aid during the first half of 2025 to secure the release of financially distressed inmates. This support has been instrumental in offering a fresh start to those facing economic hardships, allowing them to reintegrate into society without the burden of financial constraints.
In partnership with the Higher Colleges of Technology, the ADJD has also launched job-market training programs that have empowered 70 inmates with practical skills tailored to current industry demands. These programs focus on preparing inmates for sustainable employment, ensuring they can contribute meaningfully to the economy upon release.
The General Authority for Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Zakat has further enriched the rehabilitation process by organizing religious lectures and Quran competitions for over 600 inmates. These activities promote spiritual growth, ethical values, and community engagement, reinforcing the ADJD’s holistic approach to rehabilitation.
Celebrating Success at Al Wathba and Al Ain
Prior to the main event at the ADJD headquarters, vibrant activities were held at the Al Wathba and Al Ain correctional centres. These included artistic performances, theatrical shows, and cultural competitions, which showcased the creative talents of inmates. The events also featured the honoring of graduates from the job readiness program and academically outstanding inmates, celebrating their achievements and dedication to personal growth.
Inmate contributions were a highlight of these activities, with many sharing their success stories and creative works. These moments underscored the transformative power of the ADJD’s rehabilitation programs, illustrating how inmates have embraced positive transformation through education, creativity, and community support.
A Model for Global Rehabilitation
The ADJD’s celebration of World Inmate Day sets a powerful example for correctional systems worldwide. By prioritizing restorative justice, the department is not only addressing the challenges faced by inmates but also creating pathways for their successful reintegration into society. The event’s focus on empowering inmates through education, skills training, and emotional support reflects the UAE’s forward-thinking approach to justice and rehabilitation.
The partnerships forged with organizations like Ma’an, Hayat Post-Care Association, and the Higher Colleges of Technology demonstrate the strength of collaborative efforts in driving meaningful change. These alliances ensure that inmates receive comprehensive support, from digital skills training to financial aid, enabling them to overcome barriers and build brighter futures.
The Road Ahead
As the ADJD continues to innovate and expand its rehabilitation programs, the impact of its initiatives is expected to grow even further. The department’s vision, guided by His Highness Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is to create a correctional system that not only punishes but also heals, empowers, and transforms. By equipping inmates with the skills, resources, and confidence to reintegrate into society, the ADJD is paving the way for a more inclusive and compassionate future.
The World Inmate Day celebration serves as a reminder of the power of second chances. Through its unwavering commitment to restorative justice, the ADJD is helping inmates rewrite their stories, turning challenges into opportunities and setbacks into comebacks. As these programs continue to evolve, they will undoubtedly inspire other nations to adopt similar approaches, creating a global movement toward rehabilitation and reintegration.
Why This Matters
The ADJD’s efforts resonate far beyond the walls of correctional facilities. By investing in inmate rehabilitation, the department is contributing to a safer, more inclusive society. Empowered inmates are less likely to reoffend, reducing recidivism rates and fostering stronger communities. Moreover, by equipping individuals with marketable skills and spiritual guidance, the ADJD is helping them become active contributors to the UAE’s dynamic economy and cultural landscape.
For those interested in learning more about the ADJD’s initiatives or supporting their efforts, visit their official website or connect with partner organizations like Ma’an and Hayat Post-Care Association. Together, we can champion the cause of restorative justice and create a brighter future for all.
