United Arab Emirates President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan has died at the age of 73. He was battling illness for several years, had long ceased having involvement in day-to-day affairs.

“The Ministry of Presidential Affairs announced that there will be 40 days of official mourning with flags at half-mast and three days closure of ministries and official entities at the federal and local levels and the private sector,” State News Agency WAM Twitted on Friday.

There was no immediate announcement about the successor.

Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed is now seen as the de-factor ruler.