PM Modi Mourns Death of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum; Dubai Announces 10-Day Mourning

NEW DELHI, Sep 21 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed deep sorrow over the death of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, younger brother of UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and conveyed his condolences to the Al Maktoum royal family and the people of Dubai.

In a post on social media platform X, Mr Modi said, “Deeply saddened by the passing of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. His efforts to serve society will be cherished by generations to come.”

“I convey heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family and the people of Dubai. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” he added.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum died on Monday at the age of 76, according to the Dubai Ruler’s Court.

Following his death, Dubai announced a 10-day period of official mourning beginning Monday, during which flags across the emirate will be flown at half-mast.

Sheikh Ahmed, the fourth and youngest son of former Dubai ruler Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, held several prominent public and institutional positions during his career.

He served as Deputy Chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security and chaired A.R.M. Holding and the Dubai Real Estate Centre. He was also associated with Al Wasl Football Club as its chairman.

Sheikh Ahmed had a military background and graduated from Britain’s Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1975.

Tributes following his death acknowledged his contributions to public service and Dubai’s institutional development.

Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also mourned the loss of his brother, saying Sheikh Ahmed was “absent from our eyes but not from our prayers and hearts”.

The 10-day official mourning period reflects the significance of Sheikh Ahmed’s death for Dubai’s ruling family and the emirate, as tributes continued to pour in from UAE leaders and officials.