Flags across Dubai remain at half-mast during 10 days of official mourning for Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The Philippine government agency responsible for overseas Filipino workers has now added its voice to the tributes.
According to the Dubai Media Office, Sheikh Ahmed died on the morning of Monday, September 21, at the age of 76. He was born on July 12, 1950, the Thoroughbred Daily News reported. Funeral prayers were held on Tuesday, September 22, at the Za’abeel Grand Mosque, and the mourning period began on the day of his death.
In its message of condolence, the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) addressed Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, along with the wider Al Maktoum family. The agency presented its sympathy as an expression shared with Filipinos living in the emirate.
“Together with the Filipino community, we extend our heartfelt sympathy and prayers to the bereaved family and to all who mourn his passing,” the DMW said.
Sheikh Ahmed was the fourth and youngest son of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the former UAE Vice President and Ruler of Dubai. His father ruled Dubai from 1958 until his death in 1990. Sheikh Ahmed completed his training at Britain’s Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in 1975. He then joined Dubai’s Central Military Region and eventually became its commander-in-chief. He also served as deputy chairman of Dubai Police and Public Security. Khaleej Times reported that he led Al Wasl Sports Club for about 60 years.
Outside the region, he was best known in horse racing. His yellow and black silks became famous through Mtoto, who defeated Epsom Derby winner Reference Point in the 1987 Coral-Eclipse at Sandown. In 1990, he developed the Jebel Ali racecourse outside the city, where his racing stables are based.
Before the DMW message, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. had already sent his own condolences. In a statement posted on social media on Wednesday, September 23, Marcos said the Filipino people, the Philippine government, and his family join the people of Dubai and the Al Maktoum family in mourning.
“May God grant him mercy and eternity in Paradise, and grant the Al Maktoum family patience, strength, and solace during this difficult time,” Marcos said.
Sheikh Mohammed paid his own tribute on social media: “May God have mercy on you, my brother. You have settled with a Generous and Great Lord. You are absent from our eyes but not from our prayers and hearts, O Ahmed.”
The DMW said it stands in solidarity with the people of Dubai and the UAE as they mourn.
