UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and members of the UAE’s ruling families gathered in Dubai on September 22 to offer condolences to Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum following the death of his younger brother, Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The condolence gathering was held at Zabeel in Dubai, one day after Sheikh Ahmed died. The UAE’s official news agency, WAM, reported that the leaders reflected on his decades of service and contributions to the country and community.
Among those offering condolences were Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah; Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Ruler of Fujairah; Sheikh Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, Ruler of Umm Al Quwain; Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah; and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court.
Crown princes and senior members of the UAE’s ruling families also attended the gathering. They included Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, along with the Crown Princes of Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum dies at 76
Sheikh Ahmed died on September 21 at the age of 76. The Dubai Ruler’s Court announced a 10-day official mourning period across the emirate, with flags to be flown at half-mast during the period.
Funeral prayers were held at Zabeel Grand Mosque in Dubai before Sheikh Ahmed was laid to rest at Umm Hurair cemetery, according to The National.
His death brought tributes from across the UAE and abroad. Saudi Arabia’s King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also sent condolences to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and the Al Maktoum family.
A career spanning public service and sport
Sheikh Ahmed held several senior positions during his career. Al Wasl Sports Club identifies him as Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security, Group Chairman of A.R.M. Holding and President of Al Wasl Sports Club.
He graduated from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst before joining Dubai’s Central Military Command, where he later became commander-in-chief, according to Al Wasl’s official biography.
His association with Al Wasl dates back to the early years of the club, when it was known as Al Zamalek. He remained closely connected to the club for decades and served as its president.
Sheikh Ahmed was also a prominent figure in UAE horse racing. The Emirates Racing Authority says the Jebel Ali Racecourse track and grandstand were constructed in 1990 following specifications laid down by Sheikh Ahmed and trainer Dhruba Selvaratnam. Racing at the venue began in 1991.
His public and business roles extended beyond sport. He also chaired A.R.M. Holding, a Dubai-based private investment company.
Condolences continue in Dubai
On September 22, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, received condolences at Zabeel alongside senior members of the Al Maktoum family.
WAM reported that senior officials, citizens, police personnel and residents from Arab and other communities attended to offer condolences.
The official mourning period in Dubai continues following Sheikh Ahmed’s death, with the emirate observing the 10-day period announced by the Dubai Ruler’s Court.
What happened to Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum?
Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum died on September 21, 2026, at the age of 76. He was the younger brother of Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Who offered condolences to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid?
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Rulers of the Emirates, Crown Princes and senior UAE officials offered condolences in Dubai.
Where were the condolences received?
The main gathering involving the UAE President and rulers took place at Zabeel in Dubai on September 22.
How long is Dubai’s mourning period for Sheikh Ahmed?
The Dubai Ruler’s Court announced 10 days of official mourning beginning September 21, with flags flown at half-mast.
Where was Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid buried?
Following funeral prayers at Zabeel Grand Mosque, Sheikh Ahmed was laid to rest at Umm Hurair cemetery in Dubai.
What positions did Sheikh Ahmed hold?
He served as Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security, chaired A.R.M. Holding and was President of Al Wasl Sports Club.
What was Sheikh Ahmed’s connection to horse racing?
He was closely involved in UAE horse racing and was instrumental in the development of Jebel Ali Racecourse, whose track and grandstand were constructed in 1990.
