Father of Dubai: Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum

One man’s vision turned a desert town into a global city.

Father of Dubai: Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum is a must-read biographical tribute to the visionary leader who laid the foundation for modern Dubai. Known for his foresight, humility, and relentless drive, Sheikh Rashid transformed a modest trading port into one of the most dynamic cities in the world long before oil wealth played a role.

This inspiring book traces his leadership from the 1950s onward, highlighting his pivotal role in shaping Dubai’s infrastructure, economy, and governance. Through rare photographs, historical records, and personal stories, readers gain insight into the character, decisions, and values that earned him deep respect at home and admiration across the globe.

The book contends, from this time 'One imaginative programme followed another', all emanating from the Ruler's Majlis, and by the early 1980's Dubai had in place an infrastructure which rivalled any in the Gulf'. Whether it was constructing inexpensive accomodation for Dubai's working class or the world's largest man-made harbour at Jebel Ali, Sheikh Rashid showed remarkable drive and courage.

While rulers elsewhere preferred lining their own pockets, he utilised the limited resources in Dubai, borrowing money at times, to secure a prosperous future for his people and the region. Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum passed away in 1990, but his legacy lives on.