Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Brother of Dubai Ruler, Dies; 10-Day Mourning Declared

Dubai: Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, brother of Dubai Ruler and UAE Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, died on Monday morning. The Dubai Media Office and the Ruler’s Court confirmed his death, and a 10-day period of official mourning has been declared in Dubai.
Authorities said the mourning period began on Monday, during which all national flags will be flown at half-mast. An official statement expressed deep sorrow over his passing.
In an emotional message of condolence, Sheikh Mohammed said: “You have vanished from our sight, but you will never be far from our prayers and hearts.” He prayed that God grant Sheikh Ahmed a place in the highest paradise and give strength and comfort to his family and loved ones.
Sheikh Ahmed was born in 1950 and was the youngest son of the late Dubai ruler Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. He studied at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and later joined Dubai’s central military command, rising to a senior rank. He subsequently served as deputy chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security. According to official and local sources, he held key responsibilities in Dubai’s security apparatus for many years. Besides public service, he had interests in business, real estate and sports, and was group chairman of ARM Holding and associated with the Dubai Real Estate Centre.
The cause of death was not immediately disclosed. Local sources said further details on the burial and funeral prayers would be announced later.