North India Statesman
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep grief over the passing of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the younger brother of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. Sheikh Ahmed, who served as the Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and General Security, passed away on Monday at the age of 76. Following the announcement by the Ruler’s Court, the Government of Dubai declared an official ten-day mourning period across the emirate, ordering all national flags to fly at half-mast.
Taking to social media platform X, Prime Minister Modi shared heartfelt condolences with the ruling Al Maktoum family and the people of the United Arab Emirates. In his message, PM Modi remarked that he was deeply saddened by the passing of His Highness and highlighted that his lifelong dedication to public welfare and societal development will be remembered and cherished by generations to come. The tribute reflects the enduring strategic and cultural ties shared between New Delhi and the UAE leadership.
Dubai Declares 10-Day Official Mourning Across Emirates
Following the demise, the Office of Dubai’s Ruler issued an official decree instituting a 10-day mourning period spanning through the end of the month. In line with traditional protocol, flags across all government ministries, public institutions, and official departments in Dubai are being flown at half-mast. Radio stations and state television channels suspended regular entertainment schedules to broadcast Quranic verses and prayers, while major public entertainment events have been postponed.
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, and prominent regional dignitaries offered personal tributes, lauding Sheikh Ahmed’s service toward modern nation-building since the federation’s founding years. In an emotional message, Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid wrote that while his beloved brother is gone from sight, he will forever remain present in prayers and hearts.
A Legacy Spanning Defense, Business, and Sports Development
Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum held a multifaceted public career that shaped several foundational institutions across Dubai. After graduating from the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom, he joined the Central Military Command in Dubai, subsequently rising to Commander-in-Chief and overseeing critical defense modernizations. In his security capacity as Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security, he was instrumental in establishing advanced law enforcement standards throughout the emirate.
Beyond administration, Sheikh Ahmed played an influential role in Dubai’s economic diversification as Group Chairman of A.R.M. Holding and the Dubai Real Estate Centre (DREC). He was widely celebrated as a pioneer of UAE sports, having founded and chaired the historic Al Wasl Football Club in 1960. A globally renowned figure in thoroughbred horse racing, he developed the Jebel Ali Racecourse and won prestigious international classic races worldwide, leaving an indelible footprint on both global equestrianism and regional public service.
