Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Passes Away, Leaving a Lasting Legacy in Horse Racing
Mdmar – Dubai
The United Arab Emirates is mourning the passing of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who died on the morning of Monday, September 21, 2026, leaving behind a distinguished legacy of service to the UAE and a profound contribution to horse racing.
The Court of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, announced Sheikh Ahmed’s passing and declared 10 days of official mourning in Dubai, with flags to be flown at half-mast from Monday. The UAE Presidential Court also mourned Sheikh Ahmed and extended its condolences to Sheikh Mohammed and the wider Al Maktoum family.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid also paid a heartfelt tribute to his brother, praying for Allah’s mercy and forgiveness and saying that Sheikh Ahmed would remain present in the family’s hearts and prayers.
A Lasting Horse Racing Legacy
Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum occupied a special place in the history of UAE horse racing and was the founder and patron of Jebel Ali Racecourse, one of the country’s most distinctive racing venues.
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Jebel Ali Racecourse, its grandstand and adjoining racing stables were constructed in 1990 according to specifications laid down by Sheikh Ahmed together with trainer Dhruba Selvaratnam. The racecourse, widely known as the “Yellow Track,” became famous for its unique undulating layout, demanding uphill finish and welcoming family atmosphere.
Sheikh Ahmed’s influence extended far beyond the establishment of the racecourse. He was a prominent racehorse owner whose distinctive yellow and black racing colours became a familiar sight on racecourses in the UAE and internationally, carried by numerous successful horses over several decades.
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Emirates Racing Authority statistics list Sheikh Ahmed with an outstanding record as an owner of 614 victories from 4,475 runners, reflecting the scale and longevity of his involvement in the sport.
His name also remained closely associated with Jebel Ali Stables, generations of racehorses and trainers, and the continued development of racing at Jebel Ali. Even in recent seasons, he continued to be recognised as the spiritual father of Jebel Ali Racecourse and one of the sport’s most enduring supporters in the UAE.
With the passing of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the UAE and Arab racing community has lost one of the figures who played a significant role in building and developing the sport and strengthening the UAE’s position on the international racing stage for more than three decades.
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May Allah Almighty grant the late Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum His infinite mercy, grant him the highest place in Paradise, and give the Al Maktoum family and the entire equestrian and racing community patience and solace
“Mdmar” website for horse racing and equestrian News
The “Mdmar” website which was Founded by Khaled Makhlouf in 2007 for horse and equestrian races is keen to cover and follow all competitions related to horses, from show jumping, Horseracing, speed and endurance races, and purebred Arabian horse beauty shows, which belong to the Arab Gulf countries at home and abroad in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and the State of Qatar, the State of Kuwait, the Sultanate of Oman, and the Kingdom of Bahrain..
