Low-profile Gulf ruler, racehorse owner dies

DUBAI - The Prime Minister and Vice-President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid al-Maktoum, died yesterday, the official Wam news agency said.

Sheikh Maktoum, who was born in 1943, was also the ruler of the emirate of Dubai.

He maintained a low profile, preferring to allow his younger brothers, including renowned entrepreneur Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, to run the affairs of Dubai, the Gulf's trade and tourism hub.

Internationally, Sheikh Maktoum is best known as a co-owner of Dubai's Godolphin stables, which competes in major horse races.

- REUTERS