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Dubai: Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, a senior member of Dubai’s ruling Al Maktoum family and younger brother of UAE Vice-President, Prime Minister and Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, died on Monday at the age of 76.

The death was announced by the Dubai Ruler’s Court, which declared 10 days of official mourning across the emirate, beginning Monday. Flags across Dubai will be flown at half-mast during the mourning period. The official mourning is scheduled to continue through October 1.

Sheikh Mohammed pays tribute to his brother

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid paid tribute to his late brother in a message, expressing grief at his passing and remembering him in prayers. He wrote that Sheikh Ahmed was no longer before their eyes but would remain in their prayers and hearts.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan also offered condolences to Sheikh Mohammed and the Al Maktoum family. He highlighted Sheikh Ahmed’s longstanding contribution to the development of the UAE since its founding.

Condolences were also conveyed by leaders and ruling families across the region. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences to the Al Maktoum family and the people of Dubai, saying Sheikh Ahmed’s service to society would be remembered.

Military, public service and business roles

Born on July 12, 1950, in Bur Dubai, Sheikh Ahmed was the fourth and youngest son of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the former Ruler of Dubai. He served in senior military and public-security positions, including as Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security.

Beyond public service, Sheikh Ahmed was involved extensively in Dubai’s business and real-estate sectors. He served as Group Chairman of A.R.M. Holding and the Dubai Real Estate Centre. The latter, which he founded in 1991, grew into a substantial property-management operation.

Major contribution to Dubai’s sporting culture

Sheikh Ahmed was also closely associated with the development of sport in Dubai. He was among the founders of Al Wasl Sports Club in 1960 and remained its long-serving president. During his tenure, the club developed into one of the UAE’s prominent sporting institutions and won multiple domestic football titles.

He also played a role in the development of equestrian and marine sports in the emirate. He founded Jebel Ali Racecourse and helped establish the Dubai Racing Club. He also founded the Dubai International Marine Club in 1988 and was associated with the development of offshore powerboat racing through the Victory Team.

Ten-day mourning across Dubai

The Dubai Ruler’s Court said the official mourning period would begin immediately, with flags flown at half-mast throughout the emirate. Such mourning periods are traditionally accompanied by a subdued public atmosphere, while some government activities, entertainment events and official gatherings may be adjusted or suspended depending on government directions.

The passing of Sheikh Ahmed marks the loss of a prominent member of Dubai’s ruling family whose public life spanned military service, public security, business, real estate, philanthropy and sport. His death has prompted tributes from the UAE leadership and officials across the region.

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