Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the younger brother of Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, died on September 21, 2026, at the age of 76. Dubai Media Office and the Court of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid confirmed his death and announced a 10-day mourning period across the emirate.
The mourning period started on Monday and will last for 10 days. During this time, flags at Dubai are at half-mast as the emirate pays tribute to Sheikh Ahmed.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, who is also the UAE’s Vice President and Prime Minister, paid tribute to his younger brother after the announcement. In a message posted on X, he expressed his grief and prayed for Sheikh Ahmed's mercy and a place in Paradise.
President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan also offered condolences to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and the Al Maktoum family. He praised Sheikh Ahmed's contribution to the UAE and extended his wishes to his family and relatives.
Sheikh Ahmed was born in 1950 and was the youngest son of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the former ruler of Dubai. He graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the UK before joining Dubai’s Central Military Command, where he eventually became Commander-in-Chief.
He also held the position of Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security and was in close contact with some key security, business and sporting institutions in Dubai.
Sheikh Ahmed was also involved in horse racing apart from his public duties. He was associated with Jebel Ali Racecourse and Jebel Ali Stables and was a leading owner and breeder of international thoroughbred racing. He was also the president of Al Wasl Sports Club.
His business interests included leadership positions at A.R.M. Holding and Dubai Real Estate Centre. His career then extended from public service, security, sports, horse racing and business.
Following his death, Dubai has entered an official mourning period in which government officials and members of the ruling family have offered their condolences.
The 10-day mourning period reflects Sheikh Ahmed’s importance in Dubai’s ruling family and public institutions. The flags will stay at half-mast during the mourning period as tributes to the late royal are given.
