The United Arab Emirates and the Emirate of Dubai are in a state of profound grief following the passing of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the younger brother of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum breathed his last on Monday, 21 September, at the age of 76. His departure marks the end of an era for a leader who played a pivotal role in the security, military, and sporting landscape of the region. In response to this significant loss, the Dubai government has declared a 10-day period of official mourning across the emirate, during which flags will be flown at half-mast as a mark of respect and tribute to his lifelong service.
Official Announcement and National Mourning
The news of the demise was officially confirmed on Monday by the office of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The statement released by the UAE Prime Minister's Office expressed deep sorrow and submission to the will of God. The official communique stated that with hearts believing in God's decree and destiny, the office of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum mourns the passing of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who returned to his Lord on Monday morning. The announcement further detailed that the 10-day mourning period would commence immediately, signifying the deep impact Sheikh Ahmed had on the administrative and social fabric of Dubai. Throughout this period, the national flags across all government departments and public spaces in the emirate will remain at half-mast.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi Expresses Condolences
Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to express his heartfelt condolences over the passing of the senior member of the Dubai royal family. In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi highlighted the legacy of service that Sheikh Ahmed leaves behind. The Prime Minister stated that he was saddened by the passing of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He noted that Sheikh Ahmed's efforts toward the service of society would be remembered by future generations, while pM Modi extended his deepest sympathies to the Royal Family and the people of Dubai, praying for the eternal peace of the departed soul. This gesture from the Indian Prime Minister underscores the strong bilateral ties and the personal respect shared between the leadership of India and the United Arab Emirates.
The Life and Legacy of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid
Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was born on 12 July 1950, into the illustrious Al Maktoum family. He was the fourth and youngest son of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the former Ruler of Dubai who is often credited with the modern transformation of the city. Growing up in a household dedicated to public service, Sheikh Ahmed pursued his education with a focus on leadership and military discipline. He attended the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom, an institution known for training world leaders and military commanders, while upon his return, he integrated into the Dubai Central Military Region, where he began a long and distinguished career in the service of the nation's defense and security.
A Career Defined by Military and Administrative Excellence
In 1975, Sheikh Ahmed was appointed as the Commander of the Central Military Zone. His leadership in this role was marked by his presence at numerous official military ceremonies, often alongside the late founding leaders of the UAE. Beyond his military contributions, he held several high-ranking administrative positions that were crucial to the governance of Dubai, while he served as the Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security, playing a vital role in maintaining the safety and stability of the emirate. On top of that, he held the significant position of the Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, contributing to the strategic decision-making processes of the government. M. Holding and the Dubai Real Estate Center.
Contributions to Sports and the Al Wasl Legacy
Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was a passionate patron of sports, with a legacy that spanned nearly six decades. He was most notably the Chairman of the Al Wasl Football Club, one of the most prominent sporting institutions in the UAE. Under his visionary leadership, the club achieved significant milestones, including winning the UAE League Championship in the 2006-07 season. His association with Al Wasl wasn't just administrative but deeply personal, fostering a culture of excellence within the club. Also, he was a central figure in the world of horse racing. He was instrumental in the establishment of the Jebel Ali Racecourse and was closely associated with initiatives such as Al Adiyat and the Dubai Horse Racing Center, helping to position Dubai as a global hub for equestrian sports.
Philanthropy and Healthcare Initiatives
The late Sheikh was also known for his commitment to humanitarian causes and healthcare development. In June 2021, he made a significant contribution toward the establishment of the Hamdan bin Rashid Cancer Charity Hospital. This support was channeled through the Dubai Police and Public Security in collaboration with the Al Jalila Foundation. His dedication to improving the lives of cancer patients reflected his broader commitment to social welfare. Following his passing, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan also expressed his condolences, while the Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, paid a moving tribute to his uncle, acknowledging his role as a pillar of the family and the state.