UAE president Shaikh Zayed dies

The president of the United Arab Emirates, President His Highness Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahayan, died yesterday after a long illness, state television said.

“The royal court announces to Arab and Islamic countries and the rest of the world the death of the leader of the nation Shaikh Zayed ... on Tuesday evening,” said an announcement read out on Abu Dhabi television before it switched to readings from the Quran.

Under the UAE constitution, Vice-President and Prime Minister Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, ruler of Dubai, will act as president until the federal council which groups rulers of the seven emirates meets within 30 days to elect a new president.

Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahayan, a son of Shaikh Zayed, will automatically take over as ruler of the capital. Official sources expect the council to elect Shaikh Khalifa as the next president.

UAE officials were not immediately available to give details on the death or funeral arrangements, but under Islam burial takes place as soon as possible.

Shaikh Zayed has led the UAE since its formation in 1971.