Dubai has entered a ten-day period of official mourning following the death of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the youngest brother of the emirate's ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He was 76. The announcement came from the Dubai Media Office on Monday, with the Ruler's Court ordering flags to be flown at half-mast across the emirate from that day.
Sheikh Mohammed paid a personal tribute on X, writing: "You are absent from our eyes but not from our prayers and hearts." The Crown Prince of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, who also serves as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, echoed those sentiments, saying Sheikh Ahmed would remain in the family's hearts, memory, and prayers.
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan extended his condolences to Sheikh Mohammed, describing Sheikh Ahmed's contribution to the UAE's development since its founding as a lasting source of inspiration. The tributes underline the deep respect Sheikh Ahmed commanded across the federation, which includes seven emirates beyond Dubai itself.
A legacy in business and public service
Sheikh Ahmed served as Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security, a role that placed him at the heart of the emirate's modernisation. In the private sector, he was Group Chairman of ARM Holding, one of Dubai's largest investment firms, with interests spanning real estate, hospitality, health technology, telecommunications, and banking.
His entrepreneurial instincts were evident early. In 1991, he founded the Dubai Real Estate Centre, which grew to manage more than 3,200 residential, commercial, and industrial units. That venture helped shape Dubai's property market long before the city became a global hub for real estate investment.
Sheikh Ahmed's influence extended well beyond business. He founded Al Wasl Sports Club in 1960, and the club described him as one of the UAE's most prominent sports pioneers. He remained its president for decades, during which Al Wasl became one of the most decorated clubs in UAE football. His passion for sport also led him to establish the Dubai International Marine Club in 1988, where he served as first president and helped launch the Victory Team offshore powerboat racing operation.
In the early 1990s, he founded Jebel Ali Racecourse and helped launch the Dubai Racing Club, strengthening the UAE's standing in international equestrian sport. These initiatives helped position Dubai as a destination for world-class sporting events, a legacy that continues today with events like the Dubai World Cup.
Beyond his public roles, Sheikh Ahmed was known for his philanthropy and support for community and charitable initiatives across the UAE. His death comes at a time when Dubai is increasingly in the global spotlight, with the city hosting major international events and conferences. The mourning period will be observed with flags at half-mast, a mark of respect for a man who helped build the emirate's modern identity.
As Dubai mourns, the broader Gulf region has also taken note. The UAE's leadership has often emphasised the importance of family and legacy, and Sheikh Ahmed's passing is a reminder of the close-knit nature of the ruling family. His contributions to sports, business, and public service will be remembered for years to come.
