Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum

Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, born on December 1, 1958, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is a prominent Emirati businessman, politician, and a key member of Dubai’s ruling Al Maktoum family.

He serves as the chairman and CEO of Emirates Airline and the Emirates Group, playing a pivotal role in transforming Dubai into one of the world’s leading aviation hubs. He also holds significant government and business positions, including the presidency of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, chairmanship of Dubai Airports, Dubai Holding, Dubai World, and Emirates NBD.

He is a board member of the Investment Corporation of Dubai and the chancellor of The British University in Dubai.

He graduated with a degree in political science from the University of Denver. His career in aviation began in 1985 when he was appointed President of the Dubai Department of Civil Aviation, the same year Emirates Airlines was launched with Sheikh Ahmed as its chairman.

Under his leadership, Emirates grew from a small regional airline with just a few leased aircraft into a globally recognized carrier with a fleet exceeding 150 aircraft, connecting Dubai to over 100 destinations worldwide.

He oversaw the expansion of Dubai International Airport into one of the busiest and most important airports globally. His strategic vision also led to the creation of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority and Dubai Airports as distinct entities, allowing Dubai to enhance aviation safety, regulation, and infrastructure.

Beyond aviation, he has influenced Dubai’s economic landscape through his roles in Dubai Holding and Dubai World, overseeing investments in diverse sectors such as real estate, hospitality, finance, and technology.