For a society and country to thrive, its leadership must be receptive to change and innovation. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai is a shining example of such leadership style. Despite being an autocratic leader, he has demonstrated qualities that foster creativity, innovation, and progress.
Sheikh Mohammed’s leadership style is a unique blend of visionary, transactional, and transformational approaches. He embodies the characteristics of a Whole Brain Thinking leader, driving Dubai’s growth and development through his innovative and forward-thinking mindset.
Under his leadership, Dubai has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as a global hub for business, tourism, and innovation. Sheikh Mohammed’s commitment to progress and development has inspired a new generation of leaders and entrepreneurs, solidifying Dubai’s position as a beacon of innovation and excellence.
Family:
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai, comes from a prominent family with a rich history. Born on July 15, 1949, he is the third of four sons of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the former ruler of Dubai. His mother, Sheikha Latifa bint Hamdan Al Nahyan, was the daughter of the former ruler of Abu Dhabi.
Sheikh Mohammed has several siblings, including brothers Maktoum, Hamdan, and Ahmed. He also has several wives and children, including sons Rashid, Ahmed, Majid, and Hamdan, and daughters Maitha and Latifa.
The Al Maktoum family has played a significant role in shaping Dubai’s history and development. Sheikh Mohammed’s father, Sheikh Rashid, was a key figure in Dubai’s transformation into a modern city-state. Sheikh Mohammed has continued this legacy, overseeing Dubai’s growth into a global hub for business, tourism, and innovation.
Despite these challenges, the Al Maktoum family remains a prominent and influential force in Dubai and the UAE. Sheikh Mohammed’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in shaping the country’s development and growth.
Leadership Principles:
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s leadership principles have transformed Dubai into a global hub for business, tourism, and innovation. He has outlined 10 essential leadership principles for effective governance. These principles emphasize the importance of serving the people, innovation, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
1. Serve the People: The primary purpose of government is to serve the community. Leaders must prioritize the needs of their people and ensure that laws and regulations benefit humanity.
2. Stay Grounded: Leadership positions are temporary, and leaders must not become too attached to their roles. Principles and purpose should always take precedence over personal interests.
3. Have a Clear Plan: A well-defined plan is crucial for success. Leaders must set a clear direction, guide their teams, and motivate them to achieve their goals.
4. Monitor Progress: Regular self-assessment and external evaluation are essential for measuring performance. Leaders must establish indicators to ensure they are on track and make adjustments as needed.
5. Empower Your Team: Collaboration is key to achieving success. Leaders must build a strong team, delegate authority, and foster a culture of ambition and innovation.
6. Innovate or Stagnate: Governments that fail to innovate risk becoming outdated. Leaders must encourage creativity, embrace new ideas, and leverage innovation to drive growth and progress.
7. Communicate Effectively: Transparency and communication are vital for building trust and support. Leaders must share their vision and goals with the public, using media to promote their message and invite accountability.
8. Foster a Culture of Competition: Competition drives excellence and motivates teams to strive for more. Leaders must create a competitive atmosphere, encouraging innovation and progress.
9. Develop Future Leaders: Building the next generation of leaders is a critical responsibility. Leaders must prioritize leadership development, recognizing that empowering others is a key measure of success.
10. Make a Positive Impact: Effective leaders change lives for the better. By serving the people, innovating, and collaborating, leaders can create a lasting legacy and make a meaningful difference in the world.
Mothers’ Endowment Campaign: $272 Million Education Fund:
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum emphasizes that knowledge is the foundation of hope, enabling individuals and nations to thrive. He believes that his family’s role in the UAE is to ensure global access to education, hope, and opportunities, ultimately contributing to a better future worldwide.
In line with this vision, Sheikh Mohammed launched the Mothers’ Endowment campaign in 2024, aiming to honor UAE mothers by establishing a sustainable AED1 billion ($272.26 million) endowment fund. This initiative supports global education, benefiting millions, and allows individuals to donate in their mothers’ names.
The campaign’s primary objectives include:
• Honoring Mothers: Enabling donations in mothers’ names
• Empowering Education: Supporting educational and vocational systems globally
• Enhancing Livelihoods: Creating sustainable pathways for improved living standards and job market entry
• Fostering Stability and Development: Driving growth within underprivileged communities
By supporting education and skill-building, the Mothers’ Endowment campaign strives to make a lasting impact on individuals and communities worldwide.
Favorites of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum:
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s hobbies and interests reflect his adventurous and creative personality. These hobbies not only bring him joy but also reflect his love for his heritage and culture. Here are some of the things he enjoys doing:
1. Horse Racing and Breeding: Sheikh Mohammed has a lifelong passion for horses, which led him to establish the Godolphin Stables and own Darley.
2. Cars: He is particularly fond of his white Mercedes G63, with a distinctive license plate that reads “DUBAI 1”.
3. Writing and Poetry: As an avid writer and poet, Sheikh Mohammed has authored several books that are highly acclaimed by his fans and followers.
4. Falconry: Falcons hold a special place in his heart, and he is often seen with one in Dubai’s deserts.
5. Yachting: He owns the impressive 531-feet long yacht Dubai, which is the third-largest yacht globally.
6. Camel Racing: Sheikh Mohammed also enjoys camel racing and frequently attends events across the UAE.
