DUBAI: Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed condolences to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, following the death of his brother, Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Marcos conveyed his sympathies to Sheikh Mohammed and the Al Maktoum family in a message released on Wednesday, September 23. He said the Filipino people, the Philippine government and his family stood with Dubai and the Al Maktoum family during the period of mourning.
The Philippine President also prayed for Sheikh Ahmed, asking for mercy and peace for the late member of Dubai’s ruling family and strength and comfort for his relatives.
The message comes after Sheikh Ahmed died on Monday, September 21, at the age of 76. Dubai’s Ruler’s Court announced a 10-day period of official mourning across the emirate, with flags to be flown at half-mast during the mourning period.
Sheikh Ahmed laid to rest in Dubai
Funeral prayers for Sheikh Ahmed were held at Zabeel Grand Mosque in Dubai on Tuesday, September 22. He was subsequently laid to rest at Umm Hurair cemetery in Dubai.
UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, along with Rulers and senior members of the UAE leadership, offered condolences to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid following the funeral. The condolences were received by members of the Dubai ruling family at Zabeel.
The Philippine message adds an international dimension to the tributes being paid following Sheikh Ahmed’s death, with condolences also coming from leaders and officials outside the UAE.
Longstanding UAE-Philippines relationship
The condolence message comes against the backdrop of longstanding relations between the UAE and the Philippines and the sizeable Filipino community living and working in the UAE.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and President Marcos met in Dubai during Marcos’ official visit to the UAE in November 2024. The two sides discussed trade, investment, tourism and opportunities for professionals, while Sheikh Mohammed also acknowledged the contribution of the Filipino community to the UAE.
Marcos’ latest message therefore comes within an established relationship between the UAE leadership and the Philippines, rather than as an isolated diplomatic communication.
Dubai continues official mourning
Dubai’s 10-day mourning period began on September 21 following the announcement of Sheikh Ahmed’s death. The Ruler’s Court said flags across the emirate would be flown at half-mast during the period.
Condolences for Sheikh Ahmed are also being received at Zabeel Palace in Dubai on September 23 and 24, from 4:30pm to 8pm, according to an announcement carried by Emirates 24|7 citing WAM.
Sheikh Ahmed held several public and sporting roles during his life, including serving as Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and as Group Chairman of ARM Holding. He was also closely associated with horse racing and Al Wasl Sports Club.
Marcos’ condolences come as Dubai continues to observe the official mourning period and the UAE leadership receives messages of sympathy following the death of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
What did Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. say about Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid?
Marcos expressed his condolences to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and the Al Maktoum family following Sheikh Ahmed’s death. He also prayed for Sheikh Ahmed and for strength and comfort for his family.
When did Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum die?
Sheikh Ahmed died on Monday, September 21, 2026, at the age of 76.
Where was Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid buried?
He was laid to rest at Umm Hurair cemetery in Dubai following funeral prayers at Zabeel Grand Mosque on September 22.
How long is Dubai’s mourning period for Sheikh Ahmed?
Dubai declared a 10-day official mourning period beginning September 21, with flags flown at half-mast.
What is the connection between the UAE and the Philippines?
The two countries maintain bilateral relations covering areas including trade, investment, tourism and professional opportunities. The UAE also has a large Filipino community.
Where are condolences for Sheikh Ahmed being received?
Condolences are being received at Zabeel Palace in Dubai on September 23 and 24 from 4:30pm to 8pm.
