Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the grandson of Dubai Ruler, has carved his name in history as the first Emirati cadet to win both the International Sword and the International Award at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS).
His remarkable achievement was celebrated during the Sovereign’s Parade for Commissioning Course 241, witnessed by key members of Dubai’s royal family.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance of the UAE, attended the prestigious event alongside Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, shared a tweet to confirm his grandson's graduation at the military academy.
The graduation ceremony was presided over by General Sir Patrick Sanders, representing King Charles III.
The International Sword is presented to the best-performing international cadet, while the International Award recognises the highest overall results in military, academic, and practical studies. Sheikh Mohammed is the fourth Emirati to claim the International Sword but the first to win both honours in the same intake.
Pride for the UAE
Sheikh Hamdan expressed immense pride in the achievements. “Mohammed’s accomplishments inspire not only our family but also the youth of the UAE to strive for excellence in all their pursuits,” he said during the ceremony.
The Crown Prince also took the opportunity to meet with other Emirati cadets at Sandhurst, offering words of encouragement and commending their commitment to upholding the UAE’s values.
Sheikh Hamdan emphasised the importance of such achievements in showcasing the UAE’s capabilities on the global stage, praising Sandhurst for its pivotal role in shaping exceptional military leaders.
The ceremony was a proud moment for the UAE, with a high-profile delegation present to celebrate Sheikh Mohammed’s achievements. Key attendees included Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed, Chairman of the Dubai Ports and Borders Security Council, and Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Deputy Chief of Police and Public Security in Dubai.
A royal legacy at Sandhurst
Sandhurst, located in Berkshire, England, has been synonymous with excellence in military training since 1812. As one of the world’s premier officer training institutions, it attracts international cadets, including members of royal families, who aim to hone their leadership skills and military expertise.
Many of the UAE’s prominent leaders have trained at Sandhurst, including Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, who graduated in 2001, and Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed. The academy’s rigorous programme combines discipline, tactical training, and academic excellence, making it a global benchmark in military education.
Walking in Presidential footsteps
Sheikh Mohammed’s achievements echo those of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a Sandhurst alumnus from 1979. Sheikh Mohamed’s time at the academy was pivotal in shaping his distinguished military career, which began with extensive training in armour, helicopter flying, tactical aviation, and paratrooper techniques.
After graduating, Sheikh Mohamed returned to the UAE to attend the Officers’ Training Course in Sharjah, eventually joining the elite Amiri Guard. His career progressed to key roles within the UAE Armed Forces, culminating in his appointment as Deputy Supreme Commander. His tenure has been instrumental in modernising the UAE’s military and elevating its strategic prominence.