Born in Dubai in 1956, His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, UAE Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, was educated in Ras Al Khaimah before going on to graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and Economics from the University of Michigan, in the United States.

Upon returning from the United States in 1978, His Highness was appointed Chief of the Ruler’s Court. In 1986, he became the Chairman of the Ras Al Khaimah Municipal Council, where he continued his work to improve the Emirate’s infrastructure and governance practices.

His Highness was named Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah on June 14, 2003. As Crown Prince, he oversaw the introduction of free zones and industrial parks and efficient business licensing procedures, transforming the industrial sector in the Emirate. 

On October 27, 2010, His Highness Sheikh Saud succeeded his father, the late Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, to become the Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah. In his capacity as Ruler, he has continued to expand and diversify Ras Al Khaimah’s economy, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to improving the wellbeing of the Emirate’s people and enhancing the quality of its social services.

Under his leadership, Ras Al Khaimah Government has evolved and innovated in its approach to commerce and trade, and improved government procedures across the Emirate, guaranteeing efficiency, quality, transparency and ease of doing business.

His Highness Sheikh Saud has also strived to make high-quality education and healthcare services available to Ras Al Khaimah’s people. The Emirate now has five government and three private hospitals operating to the best international standards, in addition to more than 100 healthcare clinics. There are also more than 100 public and private schools, with varied curriculums, and numerous higher learning institutions, including international branch campuses of UK and US universities.