Ammon News - The United Arab Emirates Federal Supreme Council on Saturday elected Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as president, succeeding his brother Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, who passed away yesterday.

UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid announced the appointment of Sheikh Mohamed.

The Ministry of Presidential Affairs earlier announced an official 40-day mourning period over the death of Sheikh Khalifa during which flags will fly at half mast, and ministries, departments, federal and local institutions and businesses will shut for three days starting today.