Rabat – Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, younger brother of Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, died on Monday at the age of 76, according to the Dubai Media Office.
The Dubai Ruler’s Court said Sheikh Ahmed passed away this morning. Authorities did not disclose a cause of death in their announcement.
Dubai declared 10 days of official mourning following his death, with flags to fly at half-mast across the emirate from Monday.
Sheikh Mohammed paid tribute to his younger brother in a message shared on social media, expressing condolences and asking for mercy for Sheikh Ahmed. He also described his brother as remaining in the family’s prayers and hearts.
Sheikh Ahmed was the fourth and youngest son of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the former ruler of Dubai.
He graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom before joining Dubai’s Central Military Command. He later became its commander.
His public career included senior roles in Dubai’s security and military institutions. He served as Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security and also held the position of second deputy ruler of Dubai.
Sheikh Ahmed also played a major role in Dubai’s sporting and horse-racing sectors. He helped oversee the technical design of Jebel Ali Racecourse, which was built in 1990 and held its first racing season in 1991. He also chaired Al Wasl FC, one of the UAE Pro League’s leading clubs.
His work extended into the business sector as well. He served as Group Chairman of A.R.M. Holding and Dubai Real Estate Centre, adding business and real estate responsibilities to his public roles.
Sheikh Ahmed’s death prompted tributes from members of Dubai’s ruling family and UAE institutions. The official mourning period will continue for 10 days across Dubai, with flags remaining at half-mast during the period.
