As Dubai celebrates the birthday of Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, known affectionately as Fazza, the world witnesses why he stands among the most admired contemporary royals globally. Beyond his official roles as Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and UAE Minister of Defence, he embodies multiple personas that resonate with millions worldwide.
The Making of a Modern Leader
Sheikh Hamdan was born on 14 November 1982 in Dubai into a family where leadership and public service were integral to daily life. He is the second son of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Ruler of Dubai and UAE Vice President, and Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma Al Maktoum. His upbringing blended traditional values with modern education, creating a foundation for his future responsibilities.
His educational journey began at Rashid School for Boys in Dubai, where teachers recognized his observant nature, discipline, and strong motivation. The Crown Prince later attended the prestigious Sandhurst Military Academy in the UK, graduating in 2001. The rigorous training at Sandhurst, including early-morning drills and emphasis on teamwork, significantly shaped his character and leadership approach.
Following his military training, Sheikh Hamdan pursued further studies at the London School of Economics, where he explored economics and governance from international perspectives. This global outlook would later influence how he approached his governmental responsibilities in Dubai.
The Many Facets of Fazza
What distinguishes Sheikh Hamdan from other royals is his remarkable ability to balance official duties with genuine personal passions. His Instagram account, followed by 16.8 million people, showcases authentic moments rather than staged royal appearances, making him exceptionally relatable to the public.
As an accomplished adventurer, he has demonstrated exceptional skills in skydiving, scuba diving, and mountain climbing. His expeditions have taken him across glaciers and mountains worldwide, always accompanied by his passion for wildlife conservation and photography. The Crown Prince frequently shares stunning photographs of landscapes, wildlife encounters, and Dubai's daily life, preferring authenticity over polished glamour.
His equestrian achievements are equally impressive. Sheikh Hamdan has competed in numerous endurance races and won gold at the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games. He maintains a deep connection with Emirati cultural heritage through his ownership of over 1,000 horses and 120 camels, often speaking about the discipline and tradition these animals represent.
Community Engagement and Personal Life
Sheikh Hamdan's commitment to public welfare extends beyond ceremonial duties. He played a pivotal role in launching the Dubai Fitness Challenge, an annual citywide initiative encouraging residents to commit to 30 minutes of exercise for 30 days. Under his patronage, this movement has grown into a global-scale event featuring thousands of free classes and mass participation activities.
His approachability is legendary among Dubai residents. Whether unexpectedly riding the Metro, visiting newborns in hospitals, chatting with delivery drivers, or assisting during flood emergencies, the Crown Prince consistently demonstrates groundedness and genuine concern for his people.
In 2019, Sheikh Hamdan married Sheikha Sheikha bint Saeed bin Thani Al Maktoum. The couple now has four children: twins Rashid and Sheikha born in May 2021, Mohammed born in February 2023, and Hind born in March 2025. The name Hind honors his mother and signifies strength and prosperity in Arabic culture.
Beyond his public roles, Sheikh Hamdan expresses his creative side through poetry under the pen name Fazza. His 2019 publication For the Love of Horses features 18 bilingual poems blending Arabic and English verses, reflecting his passion for equestrian life and cultural heritage.
A Lifestyle Balancing Tradition and Modernity
The Crown Prince resides in Zabeel Palace, renowned for its extensive grounds and private zoo housing exotic animals including lions, tigers, and gorillas. His property portfolio includes desert retreats and international homes designed for family privacy and outdoor activities.
His remarkable collection of vehicles features Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and a distinctive Golden Mercedes, alongside practical off-road vehicles for desert exploration. The Crown Prince also owns superyachts and private aircraft, including a Boeing 747, reflecting both his travel enthusiasm and appreciation for extraordinary engineering.
Despite the luxurious aspects of his life, Sheikh Hamdan maintains a disciplined approach rooted in tradition and personal engagement. His unique combination of athleticism, creativity, accessibility, and genuine public engagement has established his reputation as the ideal modern royal – someone who embodies Dubai's ambitious spirit while remaining culturally grounded and energetically engaged with his community.
