Dubai Princess Sheikha Mahra Announces Divorce from Sheikh Mana in Candid Instagram Post

In a dramatic turn of events, Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, a prominent figure in the UAE, has publicly announced her divorce from Sheikh Mana bin Mohammed bin Rashid bin Mana Al Maktoum. 

The announcement came through a striking Instagram post, just over two months after the couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Mahra, in May 2024. 

The Instagram post, which quickly went viral, read: "Dear Husband, As you are occupied with other companions, I hereby declare our divorce. I divorce you, I divorce you, and I divorce you. Take care. Your ex-wife." 

This direct and candid message has led to widespread speculation about the reasons behind the sudden split, with many attributing it to alleged extramarital affairs on Sheikh Mana's part. 

The couple's relationship seemed idyllic at first. They announced their engagement on March 22, 2023, and celebrated their union in a traditional Islamic marriage ceremony, Katb Al-Kitab, on May 28, 2023. Their grand wedding, followed by the birth of their daughter a year later, was highly celebrated. 

Sheikha Mahra shared her joy of motherhood, describing it as her "most memorable experience" and expressing gratitude towards her medical team for their care during childbirth. Photos of Sheikh Mana tenderly holding their newborn daughter added to the picture of a happy family. 

However, signs of trouble began to surface when Sheikha Mahra posted a cryptic message on Instagram, cuddling with her baby, with the caption "Just the two of us." This post, in hindsight, seems to hint at the underlying issues in their marriage. 

Sheikha Mahra, the daughter of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, is a well-respected advocate for women's empowerment and a supporter of local UAE designers. 

She holds a degree in International Relations from a UK university and has also studied at the Mohammed bin Rashid Government Administration College. Her public announcement of the divorce has resonated with many of her followers, who see her as a modern and courageous figure in the royal family. 

The divorce has sparked a flurry of reactions on social media. Many have expressed support for Sheikha Mahra, applauding her bravery and honesty. Comments ranged from sympathetic messages to praise for her strength and decision. 

"I find it empowering when a woman recognizes her worth and confidently stands her ground," one user wrote, while another added, "This is not the beginning of a new chapter in your life. This is the beginning of a new book. Congratulations." 

There has been no official statement from the House of Maktoum, and Sheikh Mana has yet to comment on the matter. The couple has unfollowed each other on Instagram and removed all photos of one another from their profiles, further fueling speculation about the circumstances leading to the divorce. 

Sheikh Mana, known for his entrepreneurial ventures and social media presence, has been pictured with various notable personalities, including controversial figures like Andrew Tate. This association has drawn criticism, particularly in light of the recent divorce announcement. 

In the UAE, divorce is a complex process governed by Islamic law. While adultery provides legal grounds for divorce, it is also a criminal offence that can lead to prosecution. However, if both parties agree to a mutual consent divorce, the process can be completed relatively quickly.