Dubai Mourns Sheikh Ahmed Al Maktoum as 10-Day Official Mourning Begins

Dubai has declared 10 days of official mourning following the death of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the younger brother of United Arab Emirates Vice-President, Prime Minister and Dubai ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Sheikh Ahmed died at the age of 76, prompting an official period of mourning across the emirate as members of the ruling family, government officials and residents paid tribute to the late royal.

Dubai authorities directed that flags across the emirate be flown at half-mast throughout the 10-day mourning period in honour of Sheikh Ahmed.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed his grief over the death of his younger brother in a message shared on social media, describing him as a beloved member of the family whose memory would remain in the hearts and prayers of those close to him.

“May God have mercy on Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. May God have mercy on you, my brother,” Sheikh Mohammed said.

He added, “You are absent from our eyes but not from our prayers and hearts, O Ahmed. May God make you dwell in the vast expanses of His Paradise and inspire us and your loved ones with patience and solace.”

The message reflected the personal loss suffered by the Dubai ruler and his family following Sheikh Ahmed’s death.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan also extended his condolences to Sheikh Mohammed and the wider Al Maktoum family.

The President described Sheikh Ahmed’s contributions to the development of the United Arab Emirates as significant, particularly his involvement in the country’s progress since its formative years.

According to the condolence message, Sheikh Ahmed’s contributions formed part of the wider development of the UAE and his legacy would continue to be remembered as the country moves forward.

Sheikh Ahmed was the fourth and youngest son of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the former ruler of Dubai and one of the prominent figures associated with the establishment and development of the modern United Arab Emirates.

Sheikh Rashid played a significant role in transforming Dubai and was involved in the political developments that eventually led to the formation of the UAE in 1971.

Throughout his career, Sheikh Ahmed held senior positions across several sectors in Dubai, including security, sports and business.

He served as chairman of the Dubai Police and Public Security sector and was involved in matters relating to public security and administration.

Beyond his official responsibilities, Sheikh Ahmed was also closely associated with Dubai’s horse-racing industry, an important part of the emirate’s sporting culture.

He was also involved in the business and real estate sectors.
His activities across these areas made him a recognised member of the Al Maktoum family and connected him to several aspects of Dubai’s institutional and economic development.

The announcement of his death comes as Dubai observes an official period of mourning for a member of the ruling family who spent decades involved in public life.

During the 10-day mourning period, flags will remain at half-mast across the emirate as a mark of respect.

The death has also prompted condolences from senior officials and members of the UAE community, with tributes focusing on Sheikh Ahmed’s public service, family role and contributions to Dubai and the wider UAE.

Sheikh Ahmed’s passing represents another significant loss for the Al Maktoum family, while the official mourning period provides an opportunity for the emirate to remember his life and service.

He is survived by members of the Al Maktoum family, including his elder brother, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who continues to serve as Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and ruler of Dubai.

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