The Reason Sheikh Mohammed Supported His Daughter Mahra's Divorce

Sheikha Mahra, the daughter of Dubai’s ruler,  and her husband Sheikh Mana had a love story that seemed like a fairy tale! But just  one year after the wedding, they divorced in a massive scandal. How did Sheikha Mahra  break centuries-old Arab traditions?

Why did she leave her husband? And what’s next for her  after the divorce? Everything you want to know about the Sheikha who’s become a new role  model in the Arab world is in this video.

In July 2024, a scandal erupted in  Dubai. The daughter of Dubai’s ruler, Sheikha Mahra Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum,  divorced her husband, whom she married just a year ago. And she did it in the boldest way possible. 

She announced it on Instagram with this message: “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. ” In the Muslim world, there’s  a tradition called “talaq. ” Traditionally, a man could divorce his wife by  saying, “I divorce you” three times.

This practice symbolizes the end of the marriage. For centuries,  only men could initiate a divorce this way. According to Islamic traditions, a woman can  divorce her husband through a process called “khula.

” To do this, she must go to court and  justify her reasons for wanting a divorce, often based on serious issues like abuse or  breach of marriage conditions. Sometimes, she may offer to return the mahr (bridal gift)  to her husband in exchange for the divorce. Sheikha Mahra might have already taken her case  to court, but we don’t know all the details.

But what’s clear is that she made a bold move by  writing “I divorce you” three times, a privilege traditionally reserved for men. What does this  mean? Could Sheikha Mahra be the woman who breaks down patriarchal norms?

Could she become a  new role model for women in the Arab world? Of course, conservatives are shocked by  the actions of Dubai’s ruler’s daughter, but many people are thrilled by her courage and determination. And it seems her  father didn’t oppose her decision.

We can say that Sheikh Mohammed  al-Maktoum, Sheikha Mahra's father, stood by her side and supported his  daughter. Because soon after the divorce, Mahra wrote a thank you message to her father: "Dear Father, thank you for your support.  Thank you for your love.

Thank you fo marking an era that justifies that there is  justice for everyone. My respect and love. " Why is Sheikha Mahra allowed  so much freedom in Dubai?

Let’s revisit her story and the moments  when she broke stereotypes before. In a world where many women endure infidelity and  even physical abuse, unable to find protection, the daughter of Dubai’s ruler refused to  tolerate her husband’s behavior. She wasn’t happy he spent time with other women and didn’t  accept it.

Even though Sheikha Mahra lives in a Muslim world where men can have multiple  wives, she chose not to agree with what didn’t sit right with her. This bold stance has  earned her the admiration from women around the globe. Here’s an example of a comment left  under her Instagram post about the divorce: “You are such an inspiration 👏 I wish we could actually do that, instead of being humiliated in courts and having  our arms twisted when we can’t afford to support our kids as single mothers.

I am lucky to  be living in the UAE; at least the laws here are in favor of the wife. God bless you! And may  Allah grant me strength and may justice prevail.

” But what does Sheikha Mahra’s behavior really  mean? Is she granted privileges because she’s the daughter of one of the most powerful men in  the Middle East? Or does this signal the end of patriarchal times, where women will gain more  rights and freedoms?

There’s a lot to think about here. But first, let’s look back at how  Mahra grew up and what shaped her views and life. Sheikha Mahra Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid  Al Maktoum was born on February 26, 1994, in Dubai, into one of the most powerful and  influential families in the world.

Her father, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is the  ruler of Dubai and Prime Minister of the UAE, a man known for his visionary leadership and  passion for modernizing Dubai. Her mother, Zoe Grigorakos, comes from a Greek family, adding  a unique cultural influence to Mahra’s upbringing. Sheikh Mohammed’s marriage to Zoe was one  of several unions, as he had multiple wives, a common practice in the region. 

However, unlike many of his other children, Sheikha Mahra was raised in a more  Westernized and liberal environment due to her mother’s Greek background. Growing up in this  mixed cultural setting gave Mahra more freedom than many of her half-siblings, allowing her  to experience both the traditional values of her father’s world and the more liberal,  independent spirit of her mother’s heritage. This blend of influences, from her father's  household's powerful and conservative environment to the more open and free-spirited atmosphere of  her mother’s Greek roots, played a crucial role in shaping Mahra’s personality.

She grew up with  the privilege and responsibilities of royalty and the independence and strength that came from her  diverse upbringing. This unique combination would later influence her bold decisions as an adult,  challenging traditions in ways few expected. Before Sheikha Mahra became known  by her current name and title, she was born as Christina, reflecting  her mother’s Greek heritage and Christian faith.

She spent her early years in  a different cultural environment, away from Dubai. Christina converted  to Islam before moving to Dubai, where she adopted the name Mahra and embraced  her father’s cultural and religious background. Here's what Sheikha Mahra  told about her upbringing in an interview with Harpers Bazaar Arabia: “My upbringing was deeply rooted in Greek culture  by my mother, and as a result, I feel a strong sense of connection to it.

Maintaining close ties  with my family is a significant priority in my life, as it serves as a means to remain closely  connected to my cultural heritage. I am fluent in the Greek language and make an effort to visit my  homeland as frequently as my circumstances allow. ” Mahra received a high-quality education, likely  attending prestigious institutions in the UAE and abroad.

Her upbringing and schooling  combined Eastern and Western influences, which have shaped her into the confident  and independent woman she is today. Here's what Sheikha Mahra  said in Harpers Bazaar Arabia: "I am fortunate to have been raised by  both of my parents, each imparting their own unique cultural background and values. I am  appreciative of the diversity in my upbringing and recognition the importance of unity and  openness in shaping my perspective on life".

Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum has  a large family, with at least 30 children, including many daughters from various marriages.  However, not all of his relationships with his children have been smooth. Two of his  daughters, Sheikha Shamsa and Sheikha Latifa, famously attempted to flee from Dubai, seeking  more freedom.

Their stories brought global attention to the challenges faced by women in  royal families, even in such powerful households. In contrast to these strained  relationships, Sheikha Mahra has been given a more prominent and public  role within the family. Unlike her sisters, Mahra has become a recognized face in Dubai,  frequently appearing at official events and engaging in philanthropic activities.

After  completing her education, she stepped into the spotlight, representing the family at various  functions and supporting charitable causes. There are several reasons why Sheikh  Mohammed might favor Mahra among his daughters. Her unique upbringing,  her strong educational background, and perhaps her ability to navigate the  complexities of both her father’s world and her mother’s heritage, have positioned  her as a symbol of modernity and tradition within the UAE.

This blend of qualities may have  earned her a special place in her father’s eyes, allowing her to break barriers and challenge  norms in ways others in the family have not. Sheikha Mahra’s Instagram clearly shows that  she has a strong relationship with both of her parents, but she seems incredibly close to  her mother. In many photos, mother and daughter look like best friends, sharing a love for  fashion and beautiful places.

Her mother, Zoe Grigorakos, has been by her side at  all important events, including Mahra’s graduation and her wedding, which was the  most significant event in Dubai in 2023. As soon as Sheikha Mahra moved to Dubai, she  began to break stereotypes about Arab women. Unlike many of Sheikh Mohammed’s daughters,  who rarely, if ever, appear in public, Mahra became a frequent presence at numerous  events.

For instance, the public has never seen a photo of Sheikh Mohammed’s senior  wife, and her appearance remains a mystery. Mahra’s active participation in Dubai’s public  life likely showcases the UAE as a modern, progressive country where women are as involved  in societal affairs as men. Her Greek roots made her an ideal candidate for this role, bridging  the gap between Eastern traditions and Western expectations.

Mahra’s visibility is  not just about her personal presence; it’s a strategic move to present the UAE as a  forward-thinking nation on the global stage. Her involvement in public events and her role  as a modern Arab woman has set her apart, marking her as a symbol of progress and  change in a region deeply rooted in tradition. Here’s another surprising fact that’s quite  unusual for the Arab world: Sheikha Mahra has started openly sharing news about  her personal life.

In the Muslim world, people usually keep their private lives  very guarded. For example, Sheikh Hamdan, the son of Dubai’s ruler, has never even  shown his wife to the public. But Sheikha Mahra has taken a different path, openly sharing  what’s happening in her life on social media.

One big reveal was her engagement to Sheikh Mana  Al Maktoum. He is an Emirati businessman known for his business acumen and wealth, making  him an ideal match for Sheikha Mahra. He comes from a well-established family and has  been involved in various successful ventures, contributing to his fortune.

A well-known  entrepreneur, Sheikh Mana has been the driving force behind multiple companies and  commercial initiatives including AlBarada Trading, Dubai Tech, GCI Real Estate Development  Company, and MM Group of Companies. Their union was seen as a perfect  blend of tradition and modernity, with both families holding significant influence  in the UAE. So their wedding was spectacular, a lavish affair with all of Dubai talking. 

Traditionally, Muslim brides wear modest, often elaborately embroidered dresses, sometimes  in vibrant colors, with their heads covered. But true to her style, Sheikha Mahra broke the mold  once again. She chose to wear a classic white gown in the Western style, stunningly elegant and  completely non-traditional for a Muslim bride.

The dress featured intricate lacework and a  long, flowing train, exuding grace and modernity. In another departure from tradition, where  Muslim weddings usually have the bride and groom celebrating separately, Sheikha  Mahra and Sheikh Mana celebrated together, taking photos and enjoying the festivities  side by side. This choice was symbolic, reflecting a more modern approach to marriage,  blending tradition with the couple’s preferences.

Their wedding wasn’t just a celebration of  their love; it was a statement of how the new generation in the UAE is embracing both their  heritage and the global influences around them. After their spectacular wedding, Sheikha Mahra  and Sheikh Mana quickly became the darlings of the social scene. The couple didn’t shy away  from the public eye but openly shared glimpses of their love and life.

They went on a romantic  getaway, which was widely covered by the media. Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana enjoyed  a romantic honeymoon in Mykonos, Greece. Spending their honeymoon in  Mahra's homeland was symbolic.

She wanted to show her husband her favorite  places in the country where she grew up. They shared beautiful moments from their  getaway, including photos of themselves jet skiing and exploring the island. The  couple appeared to be in high spirits, embracing the thrill of watersports and the serene  beauty of Mykonos.

With its pristine beaches, stunning Aegean Sea views, and charming  white-washed architecture, Mykonos was the perfect destination to unwind and celebrate  their new life together, away from the public eye. After this trip, the couple enjoyed a  short getaway to the British countryside, where they celebrated Sheikh Mana’s 25th  birthday. They ended the year on a high note by traveling to the snowy French village  of Courchevel, where they indulged in sporty activities and took in the stunning  mountainous landscapes of the Alps.

Additionally, the couple attended cultural  events, such as a performance of The Phantom of the Opera at the Dubai Opera, showcasing their  shared love for the arts. These outings reflected their deep bond and commitment to experiencing  life’s joys together as a modern royal couple. In photos, they appeared as the  picture-perfect couple—elegant, happy, and deeply in love.

Whether attending events  in Dubai or enjoying time together abroad, they consistently looked stunning, capturing  the admiration of many. Their public displays of affection and togetherness marked a  significant shift in how royal couples in the UAE are perceived, blending tradition  with a modern, more open approach to marriage. Shortly after their wedding, Sheikha  Mahra made a surprising announcement: she was expecting a baby.

She shared an  ultrasound image on social media with the caption, “Just the three of us,” breaking cultural norms,  as such personal moments are usually kept private in the Muslim world. Furthermore, before the  baby’s birth, Sheikha Mahra hosted a gender reveal party, announcing she was expecting  a girl—a tradition borrowed from the West. This bold move highlighted her ongoing  challenge to traditional expectations.

While many women choose to stay home  during pregnancy, Sheikha Mahra continued her active public life, attending events and  fulfilling her duties. Despite her condition, she remained a visible and influential  figure, challenging traditional expectations for pregnant women in the  Muslim world. Her decision to stay engaged in public life during this time further  highlighted her commitment to redefining the role of women in her society, balancing her  responsibilities with grace and determination.

In February 2024, while still pregnant,  Sheikha Mahra and her husband, Sheikh Mana, celebrated Valentine’s Day—a holiday rooted in  Western tradition and not typically observed by Muslims. But for the couple, it was a  perfect opportunity to express their love for each other. They enjoyed a romantic evening  with breathtaking views of the Dubai skyline, a saxophone serenade to “Careless Whisper,”  and a candle-lit dinner in a secluded spot, possibly near Address Dubai Mall or Nazcaa. 

This beautiful and intimate celebration showed everyone that their marriage was  not arranged but founded on true love. On May 1, 2024, Sheikha Mahra gave birth to her  daughter, whom she named Mahra. In a surprising and bold move, she shared intimate photos from  the delivery room on Instagram.

The images showed the special moment, including Sheikh Mana,  the proud father, who was right by her side, supporting her through the process. Many were  amazed at how caring and involved Sheikh Mana was, as few men are comfortable witnessing the  problematic process of childbirth. He rose above all prejudices, demonstrating his  deep love and commitment to his wife.

The marriage of Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana  was admired by many—a seemingly perfect couple, deeply in love. So, it came as a shock when, just  a few months later, Mahra announced their divorce. The apparent reason was Sheikh Mana’s time spent  with other women.

This was unacceptable for Mahra, who wanted to be the only love in her husband’s  life. Despite the initial happiness, this issue became too significant to overlook, leading to  their marriage's unexpected and dramatic end. After the divorce, Sheikha Mahra retained custody  of her daughter, and she often shares photos of the little one on her blog, frequently captioned  with the phrase “my everything.

” This is quite different from the situation many women  in the Muslim world face, where they are often forced to leave their children with their  husbands after a divorce. This injustice keeps many women from seeking a divorce, even in the  worst circumstances. But not Sheikha Mahra—she maintained her right to raise her daughter and  kept all her privileges in Dubai.

She continues to attend various events, remaining an influential  figure. According to Islamic traditions, after observing a waiting period known as “iddah”  for three months, she would be allowed to remarry. So, after the divorce, not much will change in  Sheikha Mahra’s life.

She will continue to be happy with her daughter, and perhaps she might  meet a new husband. But what about Sheikh Mana? After the divorce, he left Dubai and now spends  time in London.

It seems he’s become persona non grata in Dubai. Will the ruling family ever  forgive him? Will he be able to return to Dubai?

It’s uncertain, but he’s likely to lose a  lot after divorcing the ruler’s daughter. Sheikha Mahra’s story has become an inspiring  example for many women on how to stand up for their rights in the Arab world. Realizing that her  husband was not the person she wanted to spend her life with, she bravely chose to move on without  him, undeterred by judgment or criticism.

Now, she can focus on raising her beloved daughter  and continuing her charitable projects. With her beauty and youth, there’s no doubt  she’ll meet someone new in the future. Did you feel sad about their split or see it coming?

Share your thoughts in the  comments, and thank you for watching.