Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Born 15 July 1949, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum became ruler of Dubai, vice president, and prime minister of the UAE in 2006 after his brother Maktoum's death. Under his rule Dubai transformed into a global city through state enterprises like Emirates airline, DP World, and Jumeirah Group, and landmark projects including the Palm Islands, Burj Al Arab, and Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building since 2010. An accomplished equestrian, he founded the Godolphin racing stable and Darley breeding operation across six countries, and in 2012 rode 160 km to win the FEI World Endurance Championship. Courts found him guilty of coercive and abusive behaviour toward his wife and children, and he faced controversy over the alleged kidnapping and imprisonment of one of his daughters.