Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, younger brother of Dubai’s Ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has died at the age of 76.
Ahmed died on Monday, according to the official X handle of the Government of Dubai Media Office.
Following his death, the Vice President’s office declared an official mourning period in Dubai and ordered flags to be lowered for 10 days.
The office said in a statement: “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 is also the UAE Vice President and Prime Minister, paid tribute to his late brother following the announcement.
Mohammed 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.”
The Independent reported that Ahmed served as deputy chair of Dubai Police and Public Security.
He was also described as a prominent figure in international horse racing, having owned high-profile British racehorses including Mtoto and Addeybb, as well as the Jebel Ali racecourse in Dubai.
The Dubai Racing Club also paid tribute to Ahmed, recognising his decades of service and his legacy in UAE sports and equestrianism.
