What Is a Prince Called in Dubai?

By Alice Nichols

In Dubai, a prince is referred to by the title of Sheikh. Sheikh is an honorific title used in many Middle Eastern countries to address members of the ruling families or individuals who hold high positions in society.

What Does the Title Sheikh Mean?

The word “Sheikh” has its roots in the Arabic language, where it means “elder” or “leader.” It carries a sense of respect and authority and is used to denote individuals who have earned a significant position and influence in their community.

The Sheikh as a Ruling Title

In Dubai, the title Sheikh goes beyond being just an honorific. It is also used to identify members of the ruling family, known as the Al Maktoum family. The Al Maktoum family has been ruling Dubai since the early 19th century and has played a crucial role in shaping the city’s development.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

One of the most prominent members of the Al Maktoum family is Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He is not only the ruler of Dubai but also serves as Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Sheikh Mohammed has been instrumental in transforming Dubai into a global city. Under his visionary leadership, Dubai has witnessed remarkable growth and development, becoming a hub for tourism, finance, commerce, and innovation.

Honorary Use of Sheikh Title

Besides members of ruling families, individuals who hold influential positions or have made significant contributions to society are also given the honorary title of Sheikh. This practice recognizes their achievements and grants them respect within their communities.

It is important to note that the title Sheikh is not exclusive to Dubai but is used across various countries in the Middle East, each with its own variations and nuances.

In Conclusion

In Dubai, a prince is known as a Sheikh. The title Sheikh carries a deep-rooted cultural significance and represents individuals who have earned respect, authority, and influence within their communities. Whether it is members of the ruling family or individuals who have made notable contributions to society, the title Sheikh acknowledges their achievements and grants them a distinguished status.