UAE premier Maktoum passes away

Diplomats said Maktoum, who was also vice president and prime minister of the seven-member United Arab Emirates, had suffered heart problems and was in his mid-60s.

"The UAE has today lost a historical leader who dedicated his life to building the nation and doing good for its people," a statement from the UAE presidency said.

Dubai's defense minister and Maktoum's younger brother, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum has succeeded as ruler of Dubai, the official WAM news agency said.