Major General Khalifa bin Dhaen Al Mheiri, a pioneering figure in Dubai Police whose career spanned five decades, has passed away. His death was publicly mourned on October 22 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, who paid tribute to Al Mheiri's lifelong dedication to the emirate and its people.

Al Mheiri began his service at the age of 15, shortly after the establishment of Dubai Police in 1956. At that time, the force consisted of just 29 officers and operated from Naif Fort before moving its headquarters to Al Twar in 1973. Wearing traditional attire including a kandura, ghutra, and agal, and equipped only with a baton and a red waist belt, he was among the earliest members who helped build the police service from its inception.

Throughout his career, Al Mheiri witnessed Dubai’s transformation and the changes in law enforcement practices. He recounted early challenges, such as gaining community trust in a society where disputes were traditionally resolved by tribal leaders rather than formal policing. One notable incident involved apprehending two suspects carrying stolen watches, during which he sustained a knife injury while defending himself without a firearm.

By 2006, Al Mheiri had risen to the rank of brigadier and was director of Nad Al Sheba Police Station, a role highlighting his leadership within the force. Beyond his police duties, he contributed to education and cultural preservation as the founder of Jumeira University, established in 2012. The university credits him with a vision to maintain the local community’s cultural identity, underscoring his broader commitment beyond law enforcement.

Sheikh Mohammed’s tribute described Al Mheiri as one of the nation’s most loyal men and a dedicated leader whose service was continuous and deeply committed to the Al Maktoum family and citizens of Dubai. The ruler expressed prayers for mercy on Al Mheiri and extended condolences to his family, emphasizing that Dubai does not forget those who loyally serve the emirate.

Widely known among colleagues and officials as “The Father,” Major General Al Mheiri left a lasting legacy as a pioneer of Dubai Police and a respected figure in both the security and educational sectors. His career reflected not only a professional dedication but also a personal conviction that protecting the community was both an honor and a duty.