Dubai’s Princess Shaikha Mahra Bint Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum has taken to Instagram to announce her divorce in an unconventional and public manner. The princess, known for breaking traditions and advocating for feminist causes, declared her separation from her husband by posting the word “divorce” three times on her social media account.
The announcement, made on Wednesday, marks the end of a marriage that began just over a year ago. Princess Mahra, the daughter of the Ruler of the United Arab Emirates, Vice President, and King of Dubai, Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, revealed that her husband’s involvement in an extramarital affair was the reason behind their split.
In her Instagram post, Mahra wrote, “Dear husband, you are busy with other partners, so I announced the divorce. I divorced you, divorce divorce divorce. Be well, take care of yourself. Your ex-wife.” This candid revelation has sparked a significant reaction on social media, drawing attention to the ongoing debate over the practice of triple talaq—a method of Islamic divorce where the word “talaq” (divorce) is repeated three times.
Rumors of trouble in Mahra’s marriage had been circulating for weeks before her public announcement. Speculation intensified when Mahra posted a picture on Instagram of herself holding her daughter with the caption, “Just the two of us.” Observers noted the absence of her husband in the image, fueling rumors of a marital rift. Following the divorce announcement, both Mahra and her husband unfollowed each other on Instagram and deleted all shared photos, further confirming their separation.
Shaikha Mahra, who recently gave birth to a child two months ago, has often been in the media spotlight for her progressive stance and efforts to challenge traditional norms. She has a degree in International Diplomacy from a British university and is involved in various organizations.
The princess’s decision to announce her divorce on Instagram, a platform where she has a considerable following, is seen as a bold move. It underscores her willingness to address personal issues publicly and transparently, a rarity among members of royal families. The post has since gone viral, drawing a mixture of support and criticism from followers and the broader public.
The method of divorce via Instagram also brings attention to the controversial practice of triple talaq. The issue has been a subject of intense debate within the Islamic community, with questions about its validity and appropriateness in modern contexts. By using social media to declare her divorce, Mahra has inadvertently reignited discussions around the topic, highlighting the evolving nature of traditional practices in the digital age.
Princess Mahra’s actions reflect her commitment to transparency and personal agency. As she navigates this new chapter in her life, she continues to be a prominent figure in discussions about women’s rights and modernizing traditional customs in the UAE and beyond.
