As Muslims around the world prepare for the holy month of Ramadan, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed has ordered the release of 1,025 prisoners who had been serving jail terms for various offences. The annual pardon of prisoners is a common practice among the rulers of the UAE's emirates during significant Islamic occasions, giving the released inmates a chance to turn their lives around and contribute positively to their families and communities.

As the UAE anticipates the start of Ramadan, the country's moon sighting committee will convene after the Maghrib prayer to determine the start of the month. It is a tradition in Islam for people and religious authorities to look at the night sky and spot the crescent moon before Ramadan begins. If the moon is sighted, the holy month will commence on Wednesday, March 22, otherwise, it will begin on Thursday, March 23. Islamic months last for either 29 or 30 days, depending on when the moon is sighted.