Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the younger brother of Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, passed away on Monday morning at the age of 76. The Dubai Media Office and the Ruler’s Court announced his death on September 21, 2026.
Following the news, Dubai declared 10 days of official mourning across the emirate, starting Monday. UAE national flags across Dubai will fly at half-mast throughout the mourning period as an official tribute to Sheikh Ahmed.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid mourns his brother
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, paid tribute to his brother following his death. In a message shared on social media, he prayed for Sheikh Ahmed and asked for patience and comfort for his family and loved ones.
The tribute described Sheikh Ahmed as someone who would remain in the prayers and hearts of his family, with Sheikh Mohammed also expressing his hope that his brother would be granted a place in Paradise.
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan also offered his condolences to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, highlighting Sheikh Ahmed’s longstanding contributions to the UAE’s development since the country’s founding.
Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also mourned his uncle, describing Sheikh Ahmed as a cherished member of the family who would remain in the family’s hearts, memories and prayers.
Dubai declares 10-day official mourning
The Ruler’s Court announced 10 days of official mourning across Dubai, effective from Monday, September 21. Flags will stay at half-mast throughout the mourning period.
This mourning declaration is an official expression of respect following Sheikh Ahmed’s death. A 10-day mourning period does not automatically mean government offices, schools, businesses or public activities will stay closed for the full 10 days. Any work suspension or cancellation of events would need to be announced separately by the relevant authorities.
Further details about funeral prayers, burial arrangements and condolences are expected through official announcements and state media as arrangements get confirmed.
Who was Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum?
Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was the fourth and youngest son of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the former Ruler of Dubai and one of the key figures behind the emirate’s development. He was born on July 12, 1950, in Bur Dubai.
Over several decades, Sheikh Ahmed held important responsibilities across Dubai’s security, military and sporting sectors. He served as Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security and was closely associated with Al Wasl Sports Club.
His public life also stretched into horse racing and maritime sports, keeping him connected with several institutions that went on to shape Dubai’s sporting and social development.
Sheikh Ahmed’s military career
After graduating from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the UK, Sheikh Ahmed joined Dubai’s Central Military Region. He later became its commander-in-chief and played a part in developing the military base.
His military career formed an important part of his public service. Gulf News reports that he served as commander of the Central Military Zone in 1975 and took part in official military graduation reviews alongside the UAE’s founding-era leaders.
His responsibilities in Dubai’s security sector continued over the years, including his role as Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security.
Sheikh Ahmed and Al Wasl Sports Club
Sheikh Ahmed had a long association with Al Wasl Sports Club and served as its chairman for decades. His connection with the club goes back to its early years, when it was still known as Al Zamalek.
The club was founded in Za’abeel in 1960, and Sheikh Ahmed helped form its first board of directors in 1962. He later served as chairman until 1974 and stayed closely associated with the club throughout its growth.
During his long association with Al Wasl, he supported the development of sport in Dubai and the UAE more broadly. The club eventually grew into one of the country’s prominent sporting institutions, with teams competing in football and other sports.
Sheikh Ahmed also celebrated major achievements during his time with the club. In 2007, he was pictured with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum after Al Wasl won the 2006-07 UAE League championship.
Contribution to horse racing in the UAE
Horse racing was another major area tied to Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He played a role in developing racing facilities and activities in Dubai and helped strengthen the sport’s standing across the UAE.
He established Jebel Ali Racecourse, which grew into an important venue on the UAE horse-racing calendar. Historical reports also credit him with ordering the construction of the racecourse in 1990.
Sheikh Ahmed also launched Al Adiyat and the Dubai Horse Racing Centre. These initiatives supported the wider development of the racing industry, including work tied to handicapping systems and racing rules.
Jebel Ali Racecourse continues to host major meetings today. The UAE’s 2026-27 racing calendar includes events at Jebel Ali, such as the Jebel Ali Mile, Jebel Ali Sprint and Jebel Ali Stakes.
Also Read: iPhone 18 Pro Max Resale Prices in Dubai: Buyers Offered Up to Dh3,000
Role in maritime sports
Sheikh Ahmed also played a role in developing Dubai’s maritime sports sector. He was involved in establishing the Dubai International Marine Club and became its first chairman in 1988.
The club later became a member of the Union Internationale Motonautique, or UIM, which governs international powerboat racing and related activities. Sheikh Ahmed was also involved in setting up the Victory Team in 1989.
The Dubai International Marine Club remains an active centre for marine sports today. Its 2026-27 calendar includes traditional dhow sailing, modern sailing, rowing, aquabike, fishing, kitesurfing, kayak competitions and international UIM events.
A long public service legacy
Sheikh Ahmed’s public career spanned several areas of Dubai’s development, from military and security responsibilities to sports, horse racing and maritime activities.
His decades-long association with Al Wasl, Jebel Ali Racecourse and the Dubai International Marine Club connected him with institutions that continue to play a role in the UAE’s sporting landscape today.
Following his death, tributes from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reflected his longstanding place in Dubai’s public life and ruling family.
The 10-day official mourning period in Dubai began on Monday, September 21, with flags across the emirate flying at half-mast in his memory.