The Dubai Media Office confirmed that Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the youngest of four sons born to Dubai's founding ruler, died on Monday morning, September 21, at the age of 76. In response, Dubai announced an official 10-day mourning period beginning the same day, with flags lowered to half-mast across the emirate, as reported by Khaleej Times and noted by The Times of India.
Leaders Pay Tribute to Sheikh Ahmed's Legacy
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, publicly mourned his brother with a heartfelt message: "May God have mercy on Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. May God have mercy on you, my brother. You have settled with a Generous and Great Lord. You are absent from our eyes but not from our prayers and hearts, O Ahmed. May God make you dwell in the vast expanses of His Paradise and inspire us and your loved ones with patience and solace. And to God we belong, and to Him we shall return."
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan extended condolences to the Dubai Ruler, stating that Sheikh Ahmed's contributions to the nation since its founding would "continue to inspire the nation's journey of progress." Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum called his uncle a cherished family member who would "remain in our hearts, memories and prayers."
A Life of Civic and Military Service
Sheikh Ahmed was the fourth and youngest son of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, former Vice-President and Ruler of Dubai. After completing training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom, he returned to join Dubai's Central Military Region, eventually rising to commander-in-chief. Under his command, the region grew into one of the UAE's foremost military bases. He also held the position of Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Services.
Enduring Impact on Sports and Racing
Sheikh Ahmed's most enduring public legacy was his near 60-year association with Al Wasl Sports Club, originally known as Al Zamalek, founded in Za'abeel in 1960. He helped form the club's first board of directors in 1962 and served as chairman until 1974, remaining a driving force in its growth into one of the country's leading football and sports institutions.
In horse racing, Sheikh Ahmed established Jebel Ali Racecourse to promote the sport domestically and strengthen the UAE's international standing. He also launched Al Adiyat and the Dubai Horse Racing Centre, and contributed to developing the handicapping system and racing regulations used in the country. Additionally, he was closely involved in founding the Dubai International Marine Club, serving as its first chairman from 1988. The club became the first institution in the Middle East and Africa to join the Union Internationale Motonautique. He also played a key role in establishing the Victory Team in 1989.
The UAE government earlier updated its retirement visa requirements on 28 July 2026, setting a minimum age of 55 and a work history of at least 15 years for foreign applicants, with stricter income thresholds for those applying from Dubai.
