Dubai ruler's brother Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum passes away at 76

Dubai (Web Desk): Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, a brother of Dubai’s ruler and a well-known figure in the emirate’s sporting, commercial and security affairs, died on Monday at the age of 76, Khaleej Times reported, quoting the Dubai Media Office.

Following his death, Dubai announced a 10-day period of mourning starting Monday to pay tribute to the senior member of the ruling family. As part of the observance, flags across the emirate will remain at half-mast.

Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who also serves as the UAE’s Vice President and Prime Minister, remembered his brother in a post on X, saying that although Ahmed was no longer in their sight, he would remain in their prayers and hearts.

رحم الله الشيخ أحمد بن راشد آل مكتوم.. رحمك الله يا أخي … حللت عند رب كريم عظيم .. تغيب عن أعيننا ولا تغيب عن دعائنا وقلوبنا يا أحمد. أسكنك الله فسيح جنانه .. وألهمنا وأحبابك الصبر والسلوان.. وإنا لله وإنا إليه راجعون . https://t.co/asvSZAb4BL

— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) September 21, 2026

The deceased Sheikh Ahmed was the fourth and youngest son of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the former Vice President and Ruler of Dubai. He held the position of Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Services and served as president of Al Wasl Sports Club for nearly six decades, according to Khaleej Times.

Having graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, Sheikh Ahmed joined Dubai’s Central Military Region and eventually rose to the position of commander-in-chief. He also had a strong association with the development of horse racing in the UAE, contributing to the establishment of Jebel Ali Racecourse and the Dubai Horse Racing Centre.

His sporting contributions were not limited to horse racing, as he was also involved in the growth of maritime sports in Dubai. He helped establish the Dubai International Marine Club and became its inaugural chairman in 1988. He later played a role in founding the Victory Team in 1989.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan conveyed his condolences to Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also honoured his late uncle, while Sheikh Mohammed separately expressed his grief over his brother’s death in a social media message.