Dubai declares 10 days of mourning for ruler's brother Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the youngest brother of UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has died at the age of 76, the Dubai Media Office announced on Monday.

The Ruler's Court declared 10 days of official mourning across the emirate, with flags to be flown at half-mast from Monday.

Sheikh Mohammed paid tribute to his brother in a post on X. "You are absent from our eyes but not from our prayers and hearts," he wrote.

Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum also paid tribute, saying Sheikh Ahmed would remain in the family's hearts, memory and prayers.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan sent his condolences to Sheikh Mohammed, describing Sheikh Ahmed's contribution to the UAE's development since its founding as a lasting source of inspiration.

Sheikh Ahmed served as Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security. He was Group Chairman of ARM Holding, one of Dubai's largest private investment firms, with interests in real estate, hospitality, health tech, telecoms and banking.

He founded the Dubai Real Estate Centre in 1991, which grew to manage more than 3,200 residential, commercial and industrial units.

Al Wasl Sports Club, which he founded in 1960, described him as one of the UAE's most prominent sports pioneers. He remained its president for decades, during which the club became one of the most decorated in UAE football.

He also established the Dubai International Marine Club in 1988, serving as its first president, and helped launch the Victory Team offshore powerboat racing operation.

In the early 1990s, he founded Jebel Ali Racecourse and helped launch the Dubai Racing Club, strengthening the UAE's standing in international equestrian sport.

He was also known for his philanthropic work and support for community and charitable initiatives across the UAE.

The 10-day mourning period will run until 1 October, with flags flown at half-mast across the emirate throughout.