Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum was born on 15 July, 1949. He is the third of four sons of the late Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, who also include Their Highnesses Sheikh Maktoum, Sheikh Hamdan and Sheikh Ahmed.
On 4 January, 2006, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum became the Ruler of Dubai following the death of his brother Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. On 5 January, 2006, members of the UAE Supreme Council elected His Highness Sheikh Mohammed as the Vice President of the UAE.
On 11 February, 2006, UAE President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan nominated Sheikh Mohammed as the UAE Prime Minister. Sheikh Mohammed and the members of his Cabinet took their oaths before Sheikh Khalifa at Al Bateen Palace in Abu Dhabi.
Following his assumption of office as Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed established a new program to further promote excellence in government and enhance public services. He rolled out his basic principles for sustainable development including fostering innovation, engaging youth, developing human capital, investing in education and scientific research, establishing good governance in the UAE government sector and promoting the growth of a knowledge-based economy. He launched several unique initiatives targeted at raising the UAEās global competitiveness, paving the way for a new phase of economic, social and cultural development. His efforts and dedication helped the UAE achieve top global rankings in many areas.
Sheikh Mohammedās ambitious vision is considered the catalyst for most of Dubaiās pioneering projects and initiatives. His vision is integrated and comprehensive and is focused on sustainable development. The peopleās happiness and the UAEās prosperity are His Highnessās top priorities.