Dubai Princess Sheikha Mahra Does A Khula On Instagram: "I Divorce You"
Just over a year after her lavish wedding, Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, daughter of Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has announced her divorce from Sheikh Mana Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Bin Mana Al Maktoum via Instagram. The announcement came as a shock to many, given the grand celebration of their nuptials in April 2023, which was one of the most talked-about events of the year.
In a bold move, Sheikha Mahra posted a short but impactful message on her 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.” This statement not only declared the end of their marriage but also highlighted her decision to take control of her personal life. Following the announcement, she removed all posts featuring Sheikh Mana from her social media page, indicating a clear break from the past.
The princess’s divorce process involved Khula, or Khul, an Islamic legal term that allows a woman to initiate divorce. This provision grants a woman the right to seek dissolution of her marriage if she feels she cannot fulfill her marital obligations or if the marriage is causing her undue hardship. Unlike a divorce initiated by the husband, Khula requires the woman to return the mahr (dower) or another agreed-upon compensation to the husband. The process involves petitioning a judge or an Islamic court, presenting valid reasons for the divorce. If the court finds her reasons sufficient, the divorce is granted, with or without the husband’s consent.
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Khula emphasizes the importance of mutual consent and fair treatment in marriage, reflecting Islam’s recognition of women’s rights and their agency within marital relationships. Sheikha Mahra’s public declaration of Khula on social media has sparked conversations about women’s empowerment and the right to personal autonomy in the context of traditional and modern values.
Their wedding, held in April 2023, was a spectacular event, with Sheikha Mahra stunning in an ivory gown by Dubai-based designer Ezra Couture and jewelry by Chopard. The ceremony was widely covered in the media, with pictures going viral online. Five months after their wedding, Sheikha Mahra and Sheikh Mana announced they are expecting, sharing an ultrasound photo on Instagram captioned “Just the three of us.”
Sheikh Mana, known for his ventures in real estate, technology, and trading, is also an adventurer and horse enthusiast. He recently shared photos from a ski trip in France and has a love for philosophy. Additionally, he served in the UAE Armed Forces-National Service.
Support has been pouring in for Sheikha Mahra from friends and well-wishers, expressing solidarity during what is undoubtedly a challenging time for the royal.
