UAE’s long-ailing leader Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed dies at 73

By ADAM SCHRECK and AYA BATRAWY
Associated Press

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — The United Arab Emirates’ long-ailing ruler, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has died. He was 73. The UAE’s Ministry of Presidential Affairs announced a 40-day period of mourning and a three-day suspension of work in all ministries and the private sector beginning Friday, including flags to be flown at half-staff. His name was immortalized on the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, in Dubai. After suffering a stroke, he had long ceased having involvement in day-to-day affairs, with his brother, Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed, seen as the de-facto ruler. There was no immediate announcement about a successor, though the crown prince is in line to succeed Sheikh Khalifa as president.