Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the grandson of Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, achieved a historic milestone at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst by receiving the prestigious International Sword and International Award simultaneously—a first for an Emirati cadet.
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Significant Achievements
- International Sword:
- Awarded to the best international cadet out of the academy’s 44-week course.
- Only the fourth UAE recipient, following Ahmed Sohail Faris Al Mazrui in 2017.
- International Award:
- Recognizes the cadet with the best overall results in military, academic, and practical studies.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid is the first Emirati to receive both accolades in Sandhurst’s storied history.
Ceremony Highlights
- The Passing Out Parade was attended by prominent Emirati and British dignitaries:
- Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, who expressed pride in the cadet’s dual honors.
- Senior members of Dubai’s ruling family, including Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed, Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed, and Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed.
- Presided over by Gen Sir Patrick Sanders on behalf of King Charles III.
- Sheikh Hamdan’s Remarks on X:
- Celebrated Mohammed’s dual honors and highlighted the pride Emirati youth bring to their nation.
- Reinforced the importance of fostering excellence in leadership and service.
Legacy of Emirati Excellence at Sandhurst
This achievement adds to a decades-long tradition of Middle Eastern leaders and royals attending Sandhurst, including:
- Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum himself, who trained at Mons Officer Cadet School – Aldershot, now part of Sandhurst.
- Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, UAE President, and his son, Sheikh Zayed bin Mohamed.
- Jordan’s King Hussein, King Abdullah II, and Crown Prince Hussein.
Symbolism of the International Sword
- Crafted by Pooley Sword, with a blade of high-carbon steel, the International Sword represents leadership, discipline, and exceptional skill.
This historic achievement underscores Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mohammed’s dedication and the UAE’s commitment to fostering world-class leaders in both military and civil domains.
