Sheikh Mohamed promotes Sheikh Hamdan to Lieutenant General

Dubai: President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, has issued a federal decree promoting Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defense, to the rank of Lieutenant General.

Sheikh Hamdan’s promotion comes one year after his appointment to two of the nation’s top Cabinet positions, Minister of Defense and Deputy Prime Minister, on July 14, 2024.

He was officially sworn in before President Sheikh Mohamed four days later, on Union Pledge Day.

Over the past 12 months, Sheikh Hamdan has played a pivotal role at the heart of federal government, guiding defense strategy, strengthening international partnerships, and supporting the UAE’s long-term security and development objectives.

Since his appointment as Crown Prince of Dubai on February 1, 2008, by decree from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan has consistently demonstrated a forward-looking approach grounded in innovation, resilience, and national pride.

A graduate of the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst and the London School of Economics, Sheikh Hamdan has brought a global perspective to local leadership. His early role as Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council in 2006 laid the foundation for a public service career defined by strategic direction and transformative development.

Under his guidance, Dubai has seen sustained growth in GDP, tourism, population, and international reputation. His initiatives cover sectors from urban planning to social cohesion, positioning Dubai as a model for future cities.

Outside of his official duties, Sheikh Hamdan is a prominent cultural figure. Known by his pen name "Fazza", he is a published poet, an equestrian, a falconer, and an environmental advocate. His conservation efforts and public engagement, including through social media, have earned him admiration as a leader who is both modern and deeply rooted in tradition.

Born on November 14, 1982, Sheikh Hamdan was educated at Rashid Private School in Dubai before pursuing military and economic studies in the UK and the UAE.