In a move that has stunned the United Arab Emirates, Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has publicly announced her divorce on Instagram, the New York Post reported.
Sheikha Mahra, daughter of Dubai's ruler, made a bold public declaration of her divorce from Sheikh Mana bin Mohammed using a traditional Islamic repudiation method, sparking wide-ranging reactions.
On Thursday, Sheikha Mahra, who is well-known on social media, utilized her Instagram platform to announce her separation. Her post included the phrase "I divorce you, I divorce you, I divorce you," which is a nod to the Islamic practice of triple repudiation.
This practice, while still recognized by some traditionalists, has been controversial. Sheikha Mahra's modern twist on the method by using social media has added to the shock and discussions surrounding her announcement.
The fact that such a statement came from a member of the royal family, who are typically private about personal matters, has led to speculation, including doubts about whether her account had been compromised. However, the post remains live.
Sheikha Mahra's declaration has been met with mixed reactions across the UAE and beyond. While some questioned the authenticity of the announcement, others have praised her for the empowering message it sends to women in the region.
A supporter expressed admiration for Sheikha Mahra's actions, stating, "I find it empowering when a woman recognizes her worth and confidently stands her ground." This sentiment reflects a broader discourse on women's rights and societal norms in the Middle East.
Despite the controversy, the post has remained active on Instagram, with numerous comments and shares, illustrating the public's engagement with this unusual royal news.
Sheikha Mahra married Sheikh Mana bin Mohammed last May, and the couple welcomed a daughter two months ago. The decision to divorce so soon after the birth of their child adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
Following the announcement, Sheikha Mahra took further steps by removing all photographs of her with Sheikh Mana from her Instagram. She is also noticeably absent from Mana's social media accounts now.
The Sheikha, a noted advocate for women's rights within the UAE, commands a significant following, with nearly half a million followers on Instagram, making her one of the most visible figures in the region on social media.
Sheikha Mahra is the daughter of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai and the Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, and Zoe Grigorakos. Her family's considerable influence and wealth are well-documented, with an estimated net worth of $18 million.
The marital challenges and subsequent divorce announcement come against the backdrop of her mother, Zoe, being separated from the Dubai ruler, which may have influenced public and personal perceptions of marriage and divorce within royal circles.
The Sheikha's personal journey and her actions suggest a broader narrative of challenging traditional norms and advocating for personal agency, particularly for women in high-profile positions.
