A celebration of compassion and dignity behind prison walls
In a touching move during Eid Al Adha, the Dubai Police Eid Al Adha initiative created moments of joy for female inmates and their children. With the focus on kindness, community, and family, the Dubai Police showed that no one should feel forgotten during the festive season.
Held at the Dubai Women’s Prison in Al Aweer, this celebration was more than just a one-day event. It was a symbol of human dignity, emotional healing, and hope for women serving time — many of whom are mothers longing for moments with their children.
Family Visits and Gifts Make a Memorable Eid
Children reunited with their mothers during Eid Al Adha
As part of the Dubai Police Eid Al Adha initiative, several children were granted the chance to visit their mothers inside the facility. These moments, made possible by thoughtful planning and coordination, brought tears of joy and emotional warmth to both mothers and children.
The visit was organised by the General Department of Punitive and Correctional Institutions, in collaboration with various police and charity organisations. It included:
- Gifts for children
- New clothes and toys
- A celebratory meal shared with mothers
For many inmates, these visits are rare and highly emotional. One mother said, “Just being able to hug my daughter today is a blessing I didn’t expect.”
Building Hope Through Rehabilitation and Respect
Police officials speak on the importance of positive reinforcement
Brigadier Marwan Abdul Kareem Jalfar, Director of the General Department of Punitive and Correctional Institutions, highlighted that such initiatives are part of a bigger plan. The department aims not only to maintain discipline but also to ensure that inmates feel respected and supported.
“This is part of our social responsibility,” said Jalfar. “Our aim is to ensure that inmates can reconnect with their families and experience a sense of belonging even behind bars.”
He explained that efforts like the Dubai Police Eid Al Adha initiative help build trust and promote good behaviour among inmates. This, in turn, supports their journey toward reintegration into society.
Charity Partnerships Play a Key Role
How community support enhances rehabilitation efforts
This year’s celebration was made possible through collaboration with several public and private sector entities. Local charities donated clothes, toys, and sweets, while volunteers helped coordinate the visits and decorate the prison space.
Notable contributions included:
- Gift hampers from Emirates Red Crescent
- Children’s clothes from community donors
- Special Eid meals provided by local businesses
According to organisers, the participation of the wider community sends a powerful message — one that supports second chances and inclusive celebrations.
Cultural Activities, Music, and Festive Decor
Creating a holiday atmosphere inside the prison walls
The prison compound was transformed into a vibrant, welcoming space filled with laughter, music, and colourful decorations. Traditional Arabic sweets were served, and cultural music filled the air.
Children enjoyed:
- Puppet shows
- Face painting
- A mini-play area designed just for them
The Dubai Police Eid Al Adha initiative also included a short stage programme where inmates participated in singing and reading poems about motherhood and faith. For many, it was the first time in years they felt truly seen and celebrated.
Children’s Psychological Well-being at the Centre
How reconnecting with mothers supports mental health
Experts say that initiatives like these not only help inmates but also benefit the children. Reuniting even briefly with a parent can reduce emotional trauma and provide children with a sense of security.
A psychologist working with the correctional facility noted, “A short visit can do wonders. It helps children feel that their mother hasn’t disappeared from their life. It also gives the mothers a strong reason to work toward reform.”
This emotional bonding is seen as vital in the rehabilitation of inmates who are also mothers. It gives them motivation to focus on self-improvement and prepare for a better future post-release.
Positive Impact Beyond the Celebration
Encouraging reform through kindness and inclusion
The Dubai Police Eid Al Adha initiative is part of a series of ongoing reform programmes aimed at making correctional facilities more human-centred. It includes:
- Educational workshops
- Mental health counselling
- Religious and cultural engagement activities
Officials believe that when inmates feel supported emotionally and socially, they are more likely to return to society as productive and law-abiding citizens.
This approach is in line with Dubai’s wider vision of inclusive governance, where even the prison system is managed with empathy, fairness, and foresight.
Looking Ahead: More Initiatives on the Horizon
Dubai Police committed to year-round inmate welfare
Dubai Police have confirmed that more such events are being planned for other occasions. The aim is to strengthen social ties and help inmates feel valued, despite their current circumstances.
They have also encouraged community members to contribute by donating clothes, toys, and time for upcoming celebrations like National Day, Eid Al Fitr, and even school enrolment events for the inmates’ children.
A senior official shared, “We want the public to understand that prisons are not just about punishment. They are also about giving people a chance to change and come back stronger.”
Conclusion: A Celebration of Hope and Humanity
The Dubai Police Eid Al Adha initiative reminds us that everyone deserves compassion, even those behind bars. By recognising the emotional needs of female inmates and their children, the Dubai Police have set a powerful example of restorative justice — one that blends order with empathy.
Eid Al Adha is a time of giving, sacrifice, and unity. Through thoughtful actions and a human-first approach, the Dubai Police ensured that this spirit was alive and well inside the prison walls of Al Aweer.
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