EXCLUSIVE BBC INTERVIEW :Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum  born 15 July 1949), is the Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Emir of Dubai.^[1]

Since his accession in 2006, after his brother Sheikh Maktoum died, he has undertaken major reforms in the UAE’s government, starting with the UAE Federal Government Strategy in April, 2007. In 2010 he launched the UAE vision 2021 with the aim of making the UAE “One of the best countries in the world” by 2021.^[2]

He is responsible for the growth of Dubai into a global city,^[3] as well as the launch of a number of major enterprises including Emirates Airline, DP World and the Jumeirah Group. Many of these are held by Dubai Holding, the holding company with multi-diversified businesses and investments. He currently owns 99.67% of the company.^[4]

Sheikh Mohammed has overseen the development of numerous economically transformational projects^[5] in Dubai including the creation of technology park and free economic zone Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City, the Dubai International Finance Centre, the Palm Islands and the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel. He also drove the construction of Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world.

A keen equestrian, he is the founder of the Maktoum family-owned Godolphin racing stable and the owner of Darley, the thoroughbred breeding operation with operations in six countries. In 2012, he rode the horse Madji Du Pont 160 km to take the FEIWorld Endurance Championship.^[6]

He is a recognised poet in his native Arabic.^[7]

Watch the FULL and EXCLUSIVE BBC interview with the ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum about key issues affecting the Middle East, including the conflict in Syria and Iran’s nuclear plans.

In a wide ranging interview with Jon Sopel.