Sheikh Mohammed performs funeral prayer for Sheikh Ahmed in Dubai

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, the Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, conducted the funeral prayer for his deceased brother, Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid, on Tuesday at the Zabeel Grand Mosque. Accompanied by Crown Prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed, and other senior officials, the Ruler of Dubai performed the religious rites in the presence of sheikhs, high-ranking officials, and a large congregation of worshippers.

Condolences for Sheikh Ahmed, who passed away on Monday, will be accepted at the Zabeel Majlis for three days, starting at 4pm on Tuesday and continuing until the evening prayer (maghrib) on the same day. The period of condolences will also be observed on Wednesday and Thursday mornings, from 10am until the midday prayer (dhuhr), and in the evening after the afternoon prayer (asr) until the evening prayer (maghrib) on those days.

The nation declared ten days of mourning in Dubai, with leaders from across the Emirates and around the world extending their warm tributes.

In a touching message shared on X, Sheikh Mohammed expressed that his brother's absence was not felt in their eyes but in their prayers and hearts. He acknowledged Sheikh Ahmed's significant contributions to the development of the UAE since its inception. The President of Dubai further conveyed his condolences to Sheikh Ahmed's family, asking for God's peace and mercy for them during this challenging period.

Notable figures from the Gulf and beyond, including Bahrain's King Hamad, Sultan Haitham of Oman, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, extended their best wishes to Sheikh Mohammed following Sheikh Ahmed's demise. Sheikh Ahmed was not only the deputy chairman of Dubai Police but also the group chairman of ARM Holding, a prominent UAE private investment firm.

Moreover, he was deeply committed to sports in the Emirates, establishing the Jebel Ali Racecourse in 1990 and serving as the president of Al Wasl Sports Club for several decades, guiding the club to considerable success.