DUBAI — Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, younger brother of Dubai’s Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has died at the age of 76.
The Dubai Ruler’s Court announced his death on Monday, September 21, 2026, and declared a 10-day period of official mourning across the emirate.
Flags will be flown at half-mast throughout the mourning period, effective Monday.
Sheikh Ahmed was the fourth and youngest son of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, who ruled Dubai before his son Sheikh Mohammed and played a central role in the formation of the United Arab Emirates.
He served as Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security and held a number of positions in business and sport. He was also chairman of Al Wasl Football Club and was associated with the development of horse racing in the UAE.
Sheikh Mohammed, who is also Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, paid tribute to his brother following the announcement.
“You are absent from our eyes but not from our prayers and hearts,” Sheikh Mohammed said in a message posted on X.
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan also expressed condolences to Sheikh Mohammed and the Al Maktoum family, highlighting Sheikh Ahmed’s longstanding contribution to the development of the UAE since its founding.
“May God rest his soul in eternal peace and mercy, and grant his loved ones comfort during this difficult time,” Sheikh Mohamed said.
Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sheikh Ahmed’s nephew, also mourned his death, saying he would remain in the family’s hearts, memory and prayers.
Sheikh Ahmed was born on July 12, 1950, in Bur Dubai. He served in the UAE military and later held senior public, business and sporting positions.
His death has prompted tributes from senior UAE officials and institutions, with the 10-day mourning period now underway across Dubai.