Arab media today closely watched the hospital condition of Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon, with satellite TV channels running updates at the bottom of their screens.

The emir of Dubai, Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has been succeeded by younger brother Sheikh Mohammed following his death on Wednesday aged 62.

SHEIKH Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum may not have been as familiar a figure on racecourses as his two brothers but his influence has been just as important.

The new A1 Grand Prix championship has postponed the forthcoming round at Sentul in Indonesia following the death of Dubai’s ruler.

The emir of Dubai Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum has been succeeded by younger brother Sheikh Mohammed following his death earlier today aged 62.