Photo for illustrative purposes only. WAM

Sheikh Mohammed celebrates 17 years of ruling Dubai

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid celebrates 17 years of leadership after he became the Ruler of Dubai on January 4, 2006, following the death of his brother, Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid. Sheikh Mohammed, who is also Vice President and Prime Minister, has transformed Dubai into a global center of tourism, banking, and business throughout his 17-year reign. Sheikh Mohammed was exposed to his father's accomplishments and frequently accompanied him on significant excursions, such as to London in 1959, when Sheikh Rashid obtained an agreement to build Dubai's first airfield. Sheikh Rashid died in October 1990 and was succeeded by his eldest son, Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid, with Sheikh Mohammed appointed Crown Prince in 1995. During this time, he was in charge of constructing the Burj Al Arab, which opened in September 1999. It was a hotel that introduced Dubai to the world and is still a prominent element of the city's skyline. Sheikh Mohammed took over as Ruler in 2006 following the death of Sheikh Maktoum. Under his leadership, Dubai was transformed into a global city. The world's tallest structure, the Burj Khalifa, opened in 2010. Other vital constructions, such as Dubai Marina, Dubai Metro, and shopping malls like Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, further elevated Dubai. Sheikh Mohammed recently ensured that Dubai recovered from Covid-19 faster than other countries and managed the safe and successful staging of Expo 2020 Dubai, which drew visitors worldwide. Dubai's population has grown from the modest hamlet where Sheikh Mohammed was born to around 3.5 million people today, with individuals from all over the world seeking to live and work in the emirate. BKM/ Expat Media
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