Is There a Royal Family in Dubai?

By Michael Ferguson

When people think of royalty, the first countries that come to mind are usually the United Kingdom, Spain, and Japan. However, there are numerous other royal families around the world, each with their own unique history and traditions. One such family is the Al Maktoum family in Dubai.

Dubai is a city located in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and is known for its luxurious lifestyle, towering skyscrapers, and world-class shopping centers. The Al Maktoum family has been ruling Dubai since 1833 when Sheikh Maktoum bin Buti Al Maktoum became the emirate’s first ruler.

Currently, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE as well as the Ruler of Dubai. He ascended to power in 2006 after his brother Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum passed away.

The Al Maktoum family is not just known for their political power but also for their wealth. According to Forbes’ 2021 list of billionaires, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has a net worth of $4.5 billion.

The royal family has played a significant role in shaping Dubai into the cosmopolitan city that it is today. Their vision for modernization has been evident in various development projects such as the Burj Khalifa – currently the tallest building in the world – and Palm Jumeirah – one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks.

In addition to their contributions to infrastructure development, members of the Al Maktoum family have also been involved in various philanthropic activities such as providing relief aid during natural disasters and supporting education initiatives.

Despite their influence and wealth, however, some controversies have surrounded the royal family over recent years. In 2018, one of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s daughters, Princess Latifa, attempted to flee Dubai and alleged that she was being held captive by her family. The incident sparked international attention and raised questions about the treatment of women in Dubai.

In conclusion, the Al Maktoum family is the royal family of Dubai and has been ruling the emirate since 1833. They are known for their wealth, political power, and contributions to infrastructure development. However, they have also faced controversies over recent years that have brought attention to issues such as human rights.