Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum passed away on September 21, 2026, marking a somber day for the UAE.
Dubai Mourns Loss of Esteemed Royal
Dubai’s Ruler’s Court confirmed the passing of the senior royal, who was the younger brother of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. He was 76 years old.
The Dubai Media Office announced a 10-day official mourning period, with flags flown at half-mast across the emirate and other emirates including Fujairah and Umm Al Quwain also declaring mourning.
Who was Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum?
Born on July 12, 1950, the late royal was the fourth and youngest son of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the founder of modern Dubai. He led a distinguished career in military and public service.
A Life of Service:
He graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom in 1975. He later served as Commander-in-Chief of the Dubai Central Military Command and held the key position of Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security, contributing significantly to the emirate’s security framework.
Beyond his security role, he was a major figure in business. He served as Group Chairman of A.R.M. Holding and Chairman of the Dubai Real Estate Centre, playing a vital role in Dubai’s economic growth. He was also President of Al Wasl Football Club, a club he passionately supported.
In the world of horse racing, he was a respected owner, with his famous yellow and black silks winning numerous Group 1 races globally.
Funeral at Za’abeel Grand Mosque
Funeral prayers for the deceased were held on September 22, 2026, at the Za’abeel Grand Mosque in Dubai.
The prayers were attended by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and other members of the Al Maktoum family and UAE dignitaries. Photos show the leaders carrying the UAE-flag-draped coffin.
H.H. Sheikh Mohammed shared a moving tribute on X, stating that his brother is “absent from our eyes but not from our prayers and hearts.”
The UAE President, H.H. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, along with rulers of Sharjah, Ajman and Ras Al Khaimah, also expressed deep condolences to the Dubai Royal Family.
World leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, mourned the loss, highlighting the royal’s service to society.
Condolences will be received at Za’abeel Majlis in Dubai during the mourning period.
Official Tributes and Legacy
The legacy of the late Deputy Chairman will be remembered for his dedicated service to Dubai and the United Arab Emirates. His contributions to police, public security and business will remain in the nation’s memory.
Our editorial team at straitofharmuz.co extends heartfelt condolences to the Al Maktoum family and the people of Dubai during this period of grief.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Legacy and Condolences
The passing of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has left a deep void in the Dubai Royal Family. Leaders across the UAE remembered Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for his humility and decades of public service. Citizens and residents have taken to social media to pay tribute to Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, sharing his contributions to Dubai’s development from security to business.
The Dubai Ruler’s Court stated that funeral arrangements for Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum were conducted according to traditional Islamic customs. The mourning period for Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum will continue for 10 days, during which official events will be subdued as a mark of respect.
Business community leaders, including Chairman of Danube Group Rizwan Sajan, expressed condolences, noting that Dubai has lost a visionary leader. The Al Wasl Football Club, which he headed for years, also held a minute’s silence in his honor. His work in Dubai Real Estate Centre helped shape the emirate’s property market.
As Dubai observes this mourning period, the entire nation stands with the Al Maktoum family. May his soul rest in peace.
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