President Muizzu Offers Condolences Following Death of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has extended his deepest condolences following the death of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the brother of UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. In a statement shared via social media, President Muizzu conveyed his sympathies to the UAE Prime Minister on behalf of the Maldivian government, the people of the Maldives, and in his personal capacity. The President prayed for the soul of the late Sheikh Ahmed to be granted the highest place in Jannatul Firdaus. The Dubai Media Office confirmed that Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum passed away today at the age of 76. In response to the loss, the Dubai Ruler's Court has declared a 10-day period of official mourning in Dubai, starting Monday. During this period, flags across Dubai will be flown at half-mast as a mark of respect. Born on July 12, 1950, in Bur Dubai, Sheikh Ahmed was the youngest of four sons born to the former Dubai Ruler, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Throughout his life, he held several influential leadership roles that shaped both the national and international profile of the emirate. His distinguished career included serving as the Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security. He also provided strategic leadership as the Chairman of A.R.M. Holding and the Dubai Real Estate Centre. Beyond governance and business, he was a prominent figure in regional sports, serving as the Chairman of Al Wasl FC, one of the most successful clubs in the UAE Pro League. The Maldives and the UAE maintain strong diplomatic and economic ties, and this gesture by President Muizzu underscores the close relationship between the two nations during this time of mourning for the Al Maktoum family.