The President of the United Arab Emirates has died after a long illness.

Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed was 73.

The UAE’s Ministry of Presidential Affairs has announced a 40-day period of mourning and a three-day suspension of work in all ministries and the private sector beginning today.

Because of his health, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan had long ceased having involvement in the UAE’s day-to-day affairs.  His brother, Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed, has been acting as the de-facto ruler.

There was no immediate announcement about a successor.