Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, a brother of the ruler of Dubai and prominent figure in its sports, business and security sectors, passed away on Monday at the age of 76, Khaleej Times reported citing the Dubai Media Office.

The outlet reported that Dubai had declared a 10-day mourning period from Monday in honour of the senior member of the ruling family, with flags to be flown at half-mast across the emirate.

“You are absent from our eyes but not from our prayers and hearts, O Ahmed,” the Dubai ruler — also the vice president and prime minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) — said in a post mourning his brother on X.

UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed also extended his condolences to the Dubai ruler on his brother’s passing.

“[His] longstanding contributions to the development of the UAE since its founding continue to inspire our nation’s journey of progress,” he said.

President Asif Ali Zardari expressed “deep grief” over Sheikh Ahmed’s passing. He prayed for the departed soul to be granted peace, as well as for God to give “patience and strength” to the family.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also expressed “profound grief and sorrow”, according to a statement by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).

“He devoted his life to the service of Dubai and the UAE with honour and dignity. Pakistan deeply appreciates his valuable services and pays tribute to his memory with respect and admiration,” the statement quoted him as saying.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also paid tribute to Sheikh Ahmed, noting that “his long years of service to Dubai’s security and development, and his contribution to the UAE Armed Forces, will be long remembered”.

According to Khaleej Times, Sheikh Ahmed was the fourth and youngest son of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the former vice president and ruler of Dubai.

He served as the deputy chairman of Dubai Police and Public Services.