Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the Ruler of Dubai, having assumed these roles in 2006 after the death of his brother Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Born on July 15, 1949, he has played a key role in the transformation of Dubai into a global city and has launched numerous major enterprises such as Emirates Airline, DP World, and the Jumeirah Group. He also led significant development projects including Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, the Dubai International Finance Centre, the Palm Islands, and the Burj Al Arab hotel, as well as driving the construction of Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building. Before his current roles, he was the Head of Dubai Police and Public Security and Minister of Defence. His leadership includes launching UAE national strategies like UAE Vision 2021 and the UAE Centennial 2071 plan for future development.
Early Life and Education
Sheikh Mohammed was born in Dubai and is the third son of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. He completed secondary education in Dubai, studied English in Cambridge, and underwent military training in Aldershot, UK.
Political Career
He started his career as the Head of Dubai Police and Public Security in 1968, became the UAE's first Minister of Defence in 1971, and served as Crown Prince of Dubai from 1995 until he became Ruler in 2006. He was then elected as UAE Vice President and appointed Prime Minister the same year.
Contributions and Leadership
Sheikh Mohammed has overseen transformative economic and infrastructure projects integral to Dubai's growth as a global city. His government initiatives focus on sustainable development, innovation, and preparing the UAE for future challenges through long-term national agendas.