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Watch: Dubai Ruler's grandson Sheikh Mohammed honoured as 'best cadet' at UK military academy
Sheikh Hamdan also shared a video of the graduation ceremony on social media, highlighting the special moment
Photo: X/Sheikh Mohammed
Another Dubai royal has graduated with flying colours from the renowned Royal Military Academy Sandhurst (RMAS) in the UK. This time, it's the grandson of Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Sheikh Mohammed's grandson, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, was awarded the Sword of Honour for being the best Cadet at the academy's Commissioning Course 241. The Commissioning Course 241 at RMAS includes a diverse group of international Officer Cadets, each bringing their unique cultural perspectives and backgrounds to the academy.
The prestigious Sword of Honour is sponsored by the State of Kuwait in memory of Sheikh Ali Al Sabah, marking a significant milestone in his military journey and further cementing his place among the elite.
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Photo: Instagram/Bo Dhahii
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai on Friday confirmed his grandson's recent graduation at the military academy.
Earlier in the day, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of the Dubai Executive Council, also expressed his pride in his nephew’s remarkable achievement.
Photo: Instagram/Bo Dhahii
In a social media post, Sheikh Hamdan wrote: "We are all immensely proud of Mohammed, who was awarded the International Sword for the best international cadet; and the International Award for best overall results in military, academic and practical studies — the first Emirati to achieve both honours simultaneously. Congratulations to him on these remarkable achievements."
Photo: Instagram/Sheikh Hamdan
To celebrate the moment, the Crown Prince also shared a video of the graduation ceremony on social media, giving followers a glimpse of the special occasion.
In the video, you can see Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum marching forward to receive the prestigious Sword of Honour. With poise, he saluted, shook hands, and then took the sword. Afterward, he proudly marched back, a fitting tribute to his outstanding accomplishment.
Watch the video here:
In addition, Sheikh Hamdan also posted a picture of the sword on his Instagram story, further celebrating his nephew’s success.
Screengrab: Sheikh Hamdan's Instagram story
Photo: Instagram/Sheikh Hamdan
Photo: Instagram/Sheikh Hamdan
Sheikh Hamdan also met with the Emirati recruits at the renowned academy. "Our youth continue to bring pride to their nation and families. May they continue to thrive and bring greater success to our homeland."
Photo: Instagram/Sheikh Hamdan
Photo: Instagram/Sheikh Hamdan
Dubai's collective pride
The emirate has also joined in celebrating this achievement by displaying the Dubai Ruler's graduation on some of its most iconic landmarks, including the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Museum of the Future, and along key roads in the city such as the Sheik Zayed Road.
Photo: Dubai Media Office
Photo: Dubai Media Office
This public tribute is a testament to the collective pride felt across the emirate for the accomplishments of its youth.
In a video shared by Dubai Media Office, it can be seen that Burj Khalifa lit up in honour of this achievement.
Watch the video below:
Photo: Dubai Media Office
Photo: Dubai Media Office
Photo: Dubai Media Office
How the academy shaped UAE President's military career
In a heartwarming twist, the Dubai Ruler’s grandson now follows in the footsteps of UAE President Sheikh Mohamed, who graduated from RMAS back in April 1979. Sheikh Mohamed’s time at Sandhurst was pivotal in shaping his distinguished military career. At the academy, he received training in armour, helicopter flying, tactical flying, and paratrooper skills.
Upon completing his studies, Sheikh Mohamed returned to the UAE to join the Officers' Training Course in Sharjah. Over the years, he has held numerous high-ranking roles within the UAE military, starting as an officer in the Amiri Guard — the country’s elite security force — and later as a pilot in the UAE Air Force. His leadership extended to becoming the Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.
Royal Military Academy Sandhurst
Renowned globally, Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, commonly known as Sandhurst, has trained members of distinguished families from around the world, including many from the UAE's royal families, before they embark on their military careers. Its legacy of excellence continues to attract aspiring leaders from across the globe.
The military academy is one of the UK’s most prestigious military academies and serves as the primary officer training centre for the British Army. Located in the town of Sandhurst, Berkshire, its ceremonial entrance is in Camberley, Surrey, southwest of London.
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Elizabeth Gonzales
Elizabeth Gonzales is a Digital Journalist who loves writing about the expat life — and ways to make the most of it. When she's not looking for new hacks to share with readers, you may find her giving them a real laugh at one of her stand-up comic events.
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