On Monday, 21 September 2026, the Government of Dubai Media Office said Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, younger brother of Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, had died, and that a period of Dubai mourning Sheikh Ahmed would last 10 days with flags lowered from that morning.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was 76. The Office of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, issued the notice.

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“With hearts steadfast in faith in the decree and destiny of God, the Office of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum… mourns the forgiven one, by the permission of God Almighty, Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who has passed to the mercy of his Lord this morning, Monday. The Office has declared an official mourning period and the lowering of flags in Dubai for ten days, commencing from this Monday. Indeed, to God we belong, and to Him we shall return.”

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum wrote, “May Allah have mercy on Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. May Allah have mercy on you, my brother. You are now with our Lord, the Most Generous, the Almighty.” He added, “You are gone from our sight, Ahmed, but never from our prayers or our hearts.”

The Independent reported that Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum served as deputy chair of Dubai Police and Public Security and was a major figure in international racing, with horses including Mtoto and Addeybb and ownership of Jebel Ali racecourse. The Dubai Racing Club marked his years in UAE sport and equestrian work.