The architect of the first UAE cabinet and ruler of Dubai
In short: A central figure in the formation of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum served as Dubai's ruler and the nation's prime minister. From establishing the first federal cabinet to co-owning the famous Godolphin Stables, his leadership spanned the country's most transformative decades of political independence.
Born in 1943 in Al Shindagha, Dubai, Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum was a central figure in the political evolution of the United Arab Emirates. Following the death of his father, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, in 1990, Maktoum assumed the leadership of Dubai. His political career was marked by a unique period of dual service; he held the positions of Ruler of Dubai, Vice President of the UAE, and Prime Minister of the UAE simultaneously from 1990 until his death in 2006.
His influence began at the very inception of the nation. Following the 9 December 1971 independence, Maktoum established the UAE's inaugural cabinet and held the role of Prime Minister. He held this office until 25 April 1979, when he was succeeded in the role by his father. He later returned to the premiership in 1990, a position he maintained alongside his duties as ruler.
Beyond governance, Maktoum was a prominent figure in the global equestrian community, co-owning the Godolphin Stables with his brothers, Sheikh Mohammed and Sheikh Hamdan. His life was also marked by moments of significant transition for the state; for instance, he briefly served as the acting President of the UAE for two days in November 2004, following the death of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, until the installation of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Maktoum's life ended unexpectedly on 4 January 2006, following a heart attack while staying at the Palazzo Versace Hotel in Gold Coast, Australia. He was succeeded as Ruler of Dubai by his brother, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum
- Also: Wikidata — Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum · CC0
- Also: Wikidata — Maktoum Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Stadium · CC0
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