Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's Demise Triggers 10-Day Dubai Mourning

Dubai has officially commenced a ten-day period of mourning following the passing of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the younger brother of the emirate's ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The announcement of his death, which occurred on Monday, was made via an official tweet from the Government of Dubai Media Office's X handle.

Reports from The Independent on Monday confirmed that Sheikh Ahmed was 76 years old at the time of his demise. Subsequently, the Vice President’s office declared an official mourning period, during which flags across Dubai will be lowered for ten days, effective from Monday.

The official statement from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's office conveyed deep sorrow: “With hearts steadfast in faith in the decree and destiny of God, the Office of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai—may God protect him—mourns the forgiven one, by the permission of God Almighty, Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who has passed to the mercy of his Lord this morning, Monday. The Office has declared an official mourning period and the lowering of flags in Dubai for ten days, commencing from this Monday. Indeed, to God we belong, and to Him we shall return.”

Sheikh Mohammed, who also serves as the UAE Vice President and Prime Minister, paid a moving tribute to his late brother. He wrote, “May Allah have mercy on Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. May Allah have mercy on you, my brother. You are now with our Lord, the Most Generous, the Almighty. You are gone from our sight, Ahmed, but never from our prayers or our hearts.”

According to The Independent, Sheikh Ahmed held the position of deputy chairman for Dubai Police and Public Security. He was also a prominent and respected figure in the world of international horse racing, owning several high-profile British racehorses, including the renowned Mtoto and Addeybb, in addition to the Jebel Ali racecourse in Dubai. The Dubai Racing Club extended its condolences, acknowledging his decades of dedicated service and lasting legacy within the UAE's sports and equestrian community.