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Dubai ruler dies on Gold Coast
The ruler of Dubai, United Arab Emirates Deputy President Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashed al-Maktoum, died today on Queensland's Gold Coast.
The UAE's official WAM news agency confirmed his death in Australia.
He died on the Gold Coast at the Palazzo Versace resort from a suspected heart attack.
The horse racing figure was in Australia in preparation for the Magic Millions yearling sales.
Arrangements are being made at Brisbane International Airport to fly his body home.
Diplomats said Sheikh Maktoum, who is also the ruler of Dubai, suffered heart problems and was in his mid-60s.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, who is the UAE's defence minister, is Maktoum's brother and heir who will automatically take over as ruler of Dubai.
Officials said UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed al-Nahayan will appoint a new premier and vice president for the Gulf Arab state that is a federation of seven emirates.
Sheikh Maktoum maintained a low profile, preferring to allow his younger brothers, including the globally renowned entrepreneur Sheikh Mohammed, to run the day-to-day affairs of Dubai, the Gulf region's trade and tourism hub.
Sheikh Maktoum is best known as co-owner of Dubai's Godolphin stables which competes in major horse races.
"The UAE has today lost a historical leader who dedicated his life to building the nation and doing good for its people," said a statement from the UAE's presidency.
Dubai's main stock market halted trading after the news.
The UAE has declared 40 days of mourning and government institutions will be closed for a week.link
The ruler of Dubai, United Arab Emirates Deputy President Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashed al-Maktoum, died today on Queensland's Gold Coast.
The UAE's official WAM news agency confirmed his death in Australia.
He died on the Gold Coast at the Palazzo Versace resort from a suspected heart attack.
The horse racing figure was in Australia in preparation for the Magic Millions yearling sales.
Arrangements are being made at Brisbane International Airport to fly his body home.
Diplomats said Sheikh Maktoum, who is also the ruler of Dubai, suffered heart problems and was in his mid-60s.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, who is the UAE's defence minister, is Maktoum's brother and heir who will automatically take over as ruler of Dubai.
Officials said UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed al-Nahayan will appoint a new premier and vice president for the Gulf Arab state that is a federation of seven emirates.
Sheikh Maktoum maintained a low profile, preferring to allow his younger brothers, including the globally renowned entrepreneur Sheikh Mohammed, to run the day-to-day affairs of Dubai, the Gulf region's trade and tourism hub.
Sheikh Maktoum is best known as co-owner of Dubai's Godolphin stables which competes in major horse races.
"The UAE has today lost a historical leader who dedicated his life to building the nation and doing good for its people," said a statement from the UAE's presidency.
Dubai's main stock market halted trading after the news.
The UAE has declared 40 days of mourning and government institutions will be closed for a week.link
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