Sheikha Mahra Announces Divorce
Just months after celebrating her first wedding anniversary, Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has announced her divorce from Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum. The announcement came unexpectedly through her Instagram account rather than an official statement from the royal family.
The Instagram Announcement
Sheikha Mahra broke the news with a bold post on Instagram: “Dear Husband, As you are occupied with other companions, I hereby declare our divorce. I divorce you, I divorce you, and I divorce you. Take care. Your ex-wife.” Many speculated that her account might have been hacked, but the post remains, and the comments section has been disabled. HELLO! has reached out to the palace for an official comment.
Symbolic Significance
The mother-of-one’s decision to repeat the phrase three times may symbolize the Islamic tradition in which both the bride and groom must say “qabool hai” (or “I accept”) three times each to agree to the marriage terms. This repetition ensures clarity and mutual consent, eliminating any room for misunderstanding about their commitment.
Post-Divorce Social Media Clean-Up
Since the shocking announcement, Sheikha Mahra has removed all social media posts featuring Sheikh Mana. Her Instagram now focuses solely on her philanthropic projects and updates about her baby daughter.
The Lavish Wedding
The former couple announced their engagement in March 2023 through the Arabian Royal Agency, celebrating with a poem by Sheikh Mana’s father. Their engagement was followed by a traditional Islamic marriage ceremony, Katb Al-Kitab, on 28 May 2023. A grand wedding reception in Dubai took place the following month.
Wedding Day Elegance
Sheikha Mahra’s wedding day was a grand affair. She wore an off-the-shoulder bridal gown by Dubai-based designer Ezra Couture, featuring an embellished bodice, sheer caped sleeves, and a statement train with a delicate geometric design. Her long brunette hair was styled into cascading curls with a sparkly veil. She completed her regal look with a diamond necklace and matching earrings by Chopard. Her glamorous Greek mother, Zoe Grigorakos, wore a pleated gown in shimmering blush, adding to the event’s splendor.
Family Life and Hints of Trouble
The couple welcomed a daughter named Mahra in May 2024. Sheikha Mahra announced her pregnancy on social media, captioning a photo of her baby scan with “Just the three of us.” This modern approach highlighted her willingness to share personal milestones publicly.
Signs of Marital Strain
However, recent posts hinted at marital problems. Sheikha Mahra shared a photo of herself cuddling her daughter, captioned “Just the two of us,” suggesting a strained relationship with her husband. The symbolic nature of her Instagram post, the subsequent social media clean-up, and hints of marital strain in her posts provide a glimpse into the challenges she has faced. Despite these challenges, Sheikha Mahra continues to focus on her philanthropic efforts and her role as a mother.
References:
Hello! Magazine – https://www.hellomagazine.com/brides/707618/royal-divorce-dubai-princess-sheikha-mahra-announces-shock-post-baby-split/
