In a surprising turn of events, Shaikha Mahra Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, daughter of Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has announced her divorce from her husband, Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid bin Mana Al Maktoum, via Instagram. This announcement comes just two months after the birth of their first child.
A Public Declaration
On July 14, 2024, Shaikha Mahra took to Instagram to share the news with her followers. In a heartfelt post, she wrote, “Dear Husband, as you are occupied with other companions, I hereby declare our divorce. I divorce you, I divorce you, and I divorce you. Take care. Your ex-wife.” The couple, who married in May of last year, welcomed their daughter twelve months later.
Joy of Motherhood
Shaikha Mahra had previously expressed immense joy over becoming a mother, describing it as her “most memorable experience.” She had extended her gratitude to her medical team and hospital staff for their diligent care during childbirth. Photographs shared by Shaikha Mahra, which have since been deleted, showed Sheikh Mana tenderly holding their newborn daughter and standing by her side during the birth.
Signs of Trouble?
In February, the couple had celebrated with a joyous gender reveal party. However, just weeks ago, Shaikha Mahra posted a cryptic message on Instagram, cuddling with her baby and captioning it, “Just the two of us.” This post, now seen as a potential hint at underlying issues, sparked curiosity among her followers.
Netizens React
The news of their separation quickly went viral on social media, particularly on Instagram, where users noticed that the couple had unfollowed each other and removed all photos together from their profiles. Some speculated that they had blocked each other, while others wondered if Shaikha Mahra’s account had been hacked.
Comments poured in, with one user stating, “Bad news. God bless you,” while another expressed support, writing, “I am proud. Your decision.”
Who is Shaikha Mahra?
Shaikha Mahra is the daughter of the Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and the Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. She is known for her advocacy in women’s empowerment and her support for local UAE designers. She holds a degree in International Relations from a UK university and has studied at the Mohammed bin Rashid Government Administration College.
Shaikha Mahra is one of the 26 children of the Dubai ruler and has Emirati and Greek roots, with her mother, Zoe Grigorakos, hailing from Greece. Sheikh Mohammed divorced Grigorakos years ago.
Moving Forward
As the news continues to circulate, it remains to be seen how this high-profile separation will unfold. Shaikha Mahra’s candid and public announcement marks a significant moment in her life, reflecting her strength and determination to move forward.