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Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum passes away; Dubai declares 10-day mourning


Firstdespatch.com

By  News On Air   Sep 21, 2026

Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, younger brother of Ruler of Dubai and UAE Vice-President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, passed away today at the age of 76.

The Dubai Media Office announced that an official mourning period of ten days has been declared across the emirate. Flags will be flown at half-mast during the mourning period.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum mourned the death of his brother in a message shared on social media. He prayed for Sheikh Ahmed’s soul and said that although he was absent from their eyes, he would remain in their prayers and hearts.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed his condolences to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and the Al Maktoum family, recalling Sheikh Ahmed’s longstanding contributions to the development of the UAE since its founding. Other senior leaders and officials also paid tribute to the late Sheikh Ahmed.

In India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on the passing of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. In a post on X, PM Modi said his efforts to serve the society would be cherished by generations to come. He conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family and the people of Dubai and prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul.

Sheikh Ahmed was the fourth and youngest son of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, former Ruler of Dubai. He graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in Britain in 1975 and subsequently served in Dubai’s Central Military Region, later becoming its Commander-in-Chief. He held senior positions in Dubai’s security, sports and business sectors. He served as Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security, Group Chairman of A.R.M. Holding and President of Al Wasl Sports Club. He was also closely associated with the development of Jebel Ali Racecourse and helped promote the horse racing and strengthen the UAE’s presence in the sport internationally.