Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum — Biography, Family, Education & Public Life

Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is one of the most searched-for members of Dubai's ruling family. She is the daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. She is often described online as the "Princess of Dubai", and sometimes wrongly as the "Queen of Dubai" — Dubai is ruled by an emir, so as the daughter of the ruler she is a princess, addressed with the title Sheikha.

Sheikha Mahra became known around the world in 2024, first for her public divorce announcement on Instagram and then for launching her own perfume brand, Mahra M1. She studied International Relations, is known for her interest in equestrianism, and has taken part in community and charity work in Dubai. This biography sets out what is reliably documented about her life, family, education and public role.

Early Life and Family

Sheikha Mahra was born in Dubai on 26 February 1994. Her father is Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who has ruled Dubai since 2006 and is widely credited with turning the city into a global business and tourism hub. Her mother is Zoe Grigorakos, who is of Greek origin, giving Sheikha Mahra a multicultural upbringing that combines Emirati traditions with international perspectives.

She is reported to be the only child from her father's marriage to Zoe Grigorakos. She has many half-siblings through her father, including Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum and Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed Al Maktoum. She grew up in Dubai, in the Al Maktoum family, one of the most prominent ruling families in the Arab world.

Education

Sheikha Mahra completed her early schooling at a private school in Dubai before studying in the United Kingdom. She graduated from university in 2023 with a degree in International Relations, reflecting her interest in diplomacy, global affairs and international cooperation. Reports also indicate that she completed studies at the Mohammed Bin Rashid School of Government, where leadership and governance are key areas of focus.

Public Role and Community Work

Sheikha Mahra holds no official government post and leads no foundation of her own. Her public appearances have mainly been in community and charity work in Dubai. In 2021 she visited the Community Development Authority of the Government of Dubai as a royal family ambassador, and in 2023 she visited the Rashid Centre for People of Determination in Dubai, a centre that supports children with disabilities.

She is known for her interest in equestrianism, a sport closely associated with her father, who is a well-known horse owner and endurance rider. She has a large following on social media, where she shares moments from her public and personal life.

Marriage, Family and Divorce

In 2023 Sheikha Mahra married Sheikh Mana bin Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mana Al Maktoum, an Emirati businessman and member of the wider Al Maktoum family. The couple had a wedding ceremony in May 2023 and welcomed a daughter in May 2024.

In July 2024 she announced their divorce in a post on Instagram, invoking the practice of triple talaq, traditionally only done by men. The announcement was widely reported by international outlets including the BBC and CNN, and made her one of the most talked-about royals in the world that year.

Business — Mahra M1 Perfume

In September 2024 Sheikha Mahra launched her own perfume brand, Mahra M1, with its first fragrance named after her divorce. The launch marked her move into business as an entrepreneur, and the brand has been widely covered in Gulf and international media.

Engagement

In 2025 Sheikha Mahra became engaged to French Montana, the Moroccan-American rapper whose real name is Karim Kharbouch. The engagement was confirmed in August 2025. As of the time of writing, no public wedding date has been announced.

Key Milestones