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The Saudi Press Agency reported that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz conveyed his deepest condolences during the telephone conversation with Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai. In the message the crown prince stated, “We received the news of the passing of your brother, Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, may God have mercy on him, and we extend to Your Highness and to the family of the deceased our deepest condolences and sincere sympathy.” The crown prince added a prayer that God grant the deceased mercy, forgiveness and a place in Paradise while protecting the family from all harm.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum thanked the crown prince for the gesture that reflected the deep bonds between the two countries, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The agency noted that the call occurred shortly after the announcement of the death. Such communications form part of regular high-level exchanges between Saudi and Emirati leadership on family and national matters.
The Dubai Ruler’s Court announced that Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum died on September 21, 2026 at the age of 76. Emirates News Agency reported that the court declared a 10-day period of official mourning across the emirate with flags flown at half-mast. Funeral prayers took place at Zabeel Grand Mosque before burial at Umm Hurair cemetery the following day.
Emirates News Agency reported that a majlis to receive condolences opened at Zabeel Palace in Dubai on September 22 and continued for three days. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan visited the majlis alongside rulers of the other emirates. They paid tribute to the deceased during the gatherings that drew senior officials, sheikhs and citizens.
Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum served as deputy chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security throughout much of his career, Emirates News Agency stated. He also chaired Al Wasl Football Club and led A.R.M. Holding as group chairman while maintaining a prominent role in the emirate’s business and sporting sectors. The late sheikh was the youngest brother of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and a son of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum.
King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud sent a separate cable of condolences that expressed similar sentiments to the family, the Saudi Press Agency indicated. The exchanges align with a series of recent messages between Gulf leaders following family losses in the region. Condolences continued to arrive from international figures and organisations in the days after the announcement.
