Firoz Merchant, a well-known Dubai-based Indian businessman recognized for his philanthropic endeavors, has stepped forward with a generous donation of Dh1 million. This substantial contribution aims to assist over 900 prisoners recently released from various jails across the UAE. The initiative, spearheaded by Merchant, involves covering the fines of these individuals to facilitate their timely release, enabling them to reunite with their families just ahead of the Holy Month of Ramadan.
Merchant, the proprietor of Pure Gold in Dubai, has a longstanding commitment to welfare initiatives, notably through his ‘The Forgotten Society’ project established in 2008. Over the years, he has allocated Dh25 million towards prisoner welfare, aiding in the release of more than 20,000 detainees since the initiative’s inception. Collaborating closely with law enforcement officials stationed at central jails throughout the UAE, Merchant not only settles the debts and fines of these individuals but also provides them with airfare to return to their home countries.
This year, Merchant has set an ambitious goal of facilitating the release of an additional 3,000 prisoners. Expressing gratitude for the support received from government officials, he stated, “I am grateful for the support the government officials provide to aid in the release of prisoners.”
Colonel Mohammed Yusuf Al-Matrooshi, Deputy Director of the General Administration of Punitive and Correctional Establishments in Ajman, commended Merchant’s exceptional commitment in a statement, emphasizing the rarity of such dedication towards prisoner rehabilitation. He remarked, “It is rare to see such commitment and concern towards the rehabilitation of prisoners by giving them a helping hand. We are indeed proud to work with Mr. Merchant in these endeavors and see him give so many individuals a second chance to restart their lives with their families.”