Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Dies at 76, Dubai Mourns His Loss

Dubai has entered a period of official mourning following the death of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum at the age of 76. The senior member of Dubai’s ruling family was known for his public service, security responsibilities and decades-long involvement in the emirate’s sporting institutions. Dubai’s Ruler’s Court declared 10 days of official mourning, with flags across the emirate to be flown at half-mast.

Sheikh Ahmed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Dies at 76

Sheikh Ahmed died on Monday, September 21, 2026. He was the youngest son of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum and the younger brother of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

His death has led to tributes from UAE leaders and sporting communities, reflecting his long public career and connection with Dubai’s development.

Dubai Declares 10 Days of Official Mourning

The Dubai Ruler’s Court announced 10 days of official mourning beginning September 21. During this period, flags will remain at half-mast across the emirate.

Funeral prayers were scheduled for September 22 at Za’abeel Grand Mosque in Dubai, while condolences were arranged at Za’abeel Majlis over three days.

The mourning period marks the death of a senior member of Dubai’s ruling family and a figure who had been involved in public service and sporting development for decades.

Sheikh Ahmed’s Public Service

Sheikh Ahmed had a long career in military and public security responsibilities.

He graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and later served as commander of Dubai’s Central Military Zone. He also held the position of Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security.

His public responsibilities covered a period when Dubai was expanding its institutions and developing new economic, social and sporting sectors.

Sheikh Ahmed also served as Group Chairman of A.R.M. Holding and was associated with the Dubai Real Estate Centre.

Long Association With Al Wasl Sports Club

Sport became one of the most important parts of Sheikh Ahmed’s public life.

He was closely associated with Al Wasl Sports Club and served as its president for decades. The club traces its origins to 1960, when it was formed in Za’abeel with Sheikh Ahmed among the figures involved in its early development.

Under his long leadership, Al Wasl developed across several sporting disciplines, including football, basketball, volleyball and handball.

Al Wasl’s football team went on to win eight UAE Pro League titles, strengthening the club’s place in the country’s sporting history.

Contribution to Horse Racing

Sheikh Ahmed also played an important role in developing horse racing in Dubai.

Jebel Ali Racecourse was established in the early 1990s under his involvement, helping create a dedicated venue for horse racing in the emirate. He was also associated with the development of the Dubai Horse Racing Centre and other initiatives supporting the sport.

His interest in horse racing extended to ownership and breeding, with his horses competing internationally.

The development of Jebel Ali Racecourse became part of Dubai’s broader growth as an international centre for horse racing and equestrian sports.

Dubai International Marine Club and Victory Team

Sheikh Ahmed’s sporting activities also extended to marine sports.

He helped establish the Dubai International Marine Club in 1988 and served as its first chairman. The organisation became an important centre for marine sports and helped Dubai develop a stronger presence in international powerboat racing.

He was also involved in the establishment of the Victory Team in 1989. The team later became closely associated with Dubai’s international offshore powerboat racing activities.

Tributes From UAE Leaders

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum paid tribute to his brother after the announcement of his death, expressing his grief and describing Sheikh Ahmed as someone who would remain in his prayers and heart.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan also offered condolences to Sheikh Mohammed and the Al Maktoum family. He highlighted Sheikh Ahmed’s long-standing contribution to the development of the UAE.

Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also paid tribute to his uncle. Condolences were also sent by leaders from the region and other countries, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Read more: UAE President Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Boosts Ties With Georgia

Sheikh Ahmed’s Legacy in Dubai

Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s public life was closely connected with Dubai’s military, security, business and sporting institutions.

His decades of association with Al Wasl helped the club grow from its early beginnings into one of the UAE’s recognised sporting organisations. His work in horse racing contributed to the development of Jebel Ali Racecourse, while his involvement in marine sports supported Dubai’s growing role in international powerboat competition.

His death marks the end of a long public career that spanned several stages of Dubai’s development. The 10-day mourning period reflects the significance of his position within the emirate’s ruling family and public life.