São Paulo – Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the United Arab Emirates’ Minister of Finance and deputy ruler of Dubai, passed away aged 75 on Wednesday, 24. He is the brother of Mohammed bin Rashid, UAE prime minister and Ruler of Dubai. Cause of death has not been released.
His brother posted a picture of Hamdan on Twitter, adding: “We belong to God and to Him we shall return…May God have mercy on you, my brother, my support and my companion.” Many authorities sent cables of condolences to the UAE and his family.
Saudi newspaper Arab News reported that for 50 years, sheikh Hamdan has held the position of minister of Finance in the UAE since the formation of its first government following the declaration of the federation in 1971. He led Emirati delegations to the International Monetary Fund and the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Fund for international development.
Hamdan was the second son of the late sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the former ruler of Dubai. Hamdan was focused in turning Dubai into a global trade and business hub. Hamdan led several local businesses and conglomerate. As his brother Mohammed, he was a horseman and became a major player in horse breeding and international races.
Translated by Guilherme Miranda
