ABU DHABI: Dubai announced a three day mourning period after the 33-year-old son of the Gulf emirate's ruler passed away, the official state news agency WAM said on Saturday.

Sheikh Rashid was the first son of Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid al-Maktoum and his senior wife, Sheikha Hind bint Maktoum bin Juma al-Maktoum.

The United Arab Emirates state news agency WAM said Saturday that he died of a heart attack.

Sheikh Rashid was the eldest son of Sheikh Mohammad. Rashid's brother Sheikh Hamdan is the Crown Prince of Dubai.

Sheikh Rashid was an avid sportsman and horse racing enthusiast.

PM Nawaz expresses grief

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has expressed deep sorrow over the sad demise of Sheikh Rashid.

Nawaz prayed for eternal peace for the departed soul and commiserated with the people and the government of UAE in this hour of grief.