The Al Maktoum family descends from the Al Falasah tribe, one of the Bani Yas tribes comprising several Arab tribes, and highly regarded in the United Arab Emirates and the Arabian Gulf region.

In 1833, the Al Maktoum family began their rule of Dubai, starting with the rule of Sheikh Maktoum bin Buti bin Suhail. During his rule, Dubai experienced difficult economic and political conditions that Sheikh Maktoum bin Buti was able to overcome thanks to his wisdom and steadfastness in the face of challenges. 

After his death in 1852, his brother Sheikh Saeed bin Buti became ruler where he continued in the footsteps of his brother Sheikh Maktoum bin Buti in managing Dubai's affairs. He worked on strengthening the emirate's alliances to achieve stability. After the death of Sheikh Saeed bin Buti in 1859, the rule passed to Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum, who upheld the treaties he signed with the various parties, before passing away in 1886. Following consultations among the tribe's men, it was decided to appoint Sheikh Rashid bin Maktoum as ruler of Dubai, and his rule was marked by the establishment of alliances with several other tribes.

After the death of Sheikh Rashid bin Maktoum in 1894, Sheikh Maktoum bin Hasher took over, who succeeded in promoting economic openness and establishing Dubai on the map of maritime trade and shipping lines. Sheikh Maktoum bin Hasher died in 1906, and the rule passed after him to his cousin Sheikh Buti bin Suhail, whose rule did not last long due to his old age.

The rule of Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum bin Hasher, which began in 1912, was marked by the doubling of Dubai's population and the beginning of its emergence as a modern city. Greatly loved and respected, he succeeded in significantly enhancing Dubai's standing.

In 1958, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum took over as ruler. He had been closely accompanying his father in various functions and councils, listening to the views of the public and inquiring about conditions and events. He was keen to follow up on projects personally and to meet and listen to the general public, earning him their love and respect. Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum is considered the ruler who laid the foundation for the construction of the modern Dubai that we see today.  

During his rule, many strategic, high-level projects were carried out, pushing the Emirate's economic and social progress by leaps and bounds. For example, the Rashid and Jebel Ali ports were built, as well as the Dubai International Airport and a modern road network included the construction of the Shindagha Tunnel, Al Maktoum Bridge and Al Garhoud Bridge to connect the two sides of the creek. Also, during this time, many international companies were established, including Emirates Airlines and others.

The death of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum had a great impact on local and international circles. The rule of Dubai passed to Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who was known for his wise leadership and the deep love of his people. His rule extended from 1990 to 2006, during which he appointed Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as Crown Prince.

After the passing of Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2006, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum became the ruler of the Emirate of Dubai. On January 5 of the same year, members of the UAE Federal Supreme Council selected him as Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE Cabinet.  

In 2008, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum issued a decree appointing His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as Crown Prince, and His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as Deputy Ruler of the Emirate of Dubai.