Dubai has declared 10 days of official mourning following the death of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, younger brother of UAE Vice-President, Prime Minister and Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Sheikh Ahmed, 76, died on Monday, September 21, according to the Dubai Ruler’s Court. Flags across the emirate will be flown at half-mast throughout the mourning period.

Sheikh Mohammed paid tribute to his brother in a message on social media, praying for his soul and offering condolences to his family.

Sheikh Ahmed’s military and public service

Born in 1950, Sheikh Ahmed was the 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 UK and later joined Dubai’s Central Military Command, eventually becoming its commander-in-chief. He subsequently served as Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security.

Beyond his military and security roles, Sheikh Ahmed was involved in business, real estate and sport. He served as Group Chairman of ARM Holding and was associated with the Dubai Real Estate Centre.

Long association with Al Wasl and horse racing

Sheikh Ahmed was closely associated with Al Wasl Sports Club and served as its president for decades. He was among the figures involved in the club’s formation in 1960, and under his long leadership Al Wasl became one of the UAE’s prominent sporting institutions.

He was also involved in Dubai’s horse-racing sector and helped establish Jebel Ali Racecourse and the Dubai Racing Club.

The UAE leadership and other officials offered condolences to Sheikh Mohammed and the Al Maktoum family following Sheikh Ahmed’s death. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed condolences, describing Sheikh Ahmed’s contributions to society as something that would be remembered.