UAE - Profile - Umm Al Quwain - Shaikh Rashid Bin Ahmad Al Mualla

The ruler of Umm Al Quwain since 1981, after the abdication of his father Shaikh Ahmad, Shaikh Rashid is close to UAE President Shaikh Zayed. The ruling family of this emirate is referred to as the "Bani Ahmad" group, with the emirate receiving special attention in federal funding for local projects.

Before becoming ruler, he used to deputise for his father on the UAE Supreme Council and in the day-to-day handling of state affairs. Respected as a gentleman, he used to represent his father in negotiations with Iran and neighbouring Sharjah concerning the emirate's share of the Mubarak oilfield.

Born in 1930, Shaikh Rashid received a religious education at the hands of his father, a leading authority in tribal affairs and a self-educated man. In the late 1950s he became experienced in state affairs. Shaikh Rashid sent his sons to the best universities in the West. Before taking over as ruler, he used to direct the local municipality and chamber of commerce, as well as business enterprises owned by the family or the government. His son Saud Bin Rashid is the crown prince. Shaikh Sultan Bin Ahmad Al Mualla, a cousin of the ruler, is the chairman of the Umm Al Quwain Petroleum Department.