American-Moroccan rapper French Montana has announced his engagement to Dubai Princess Sheikha Mahra, marking one of the most high-profile unions of the year.
The news, first reported by TMZ citing Montana’s representatives, confirmed that the couple became engaged during Paris Fashion Week in June. The announcement comes amid a wave of celebrity engagements this season, including global pop star Taylor Swift and NFL player Travis Kelce.
A royal connection
Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, 31, is a prominent member of Dubai’s ruling family and the daughter of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates. She is widely recognised for her philanthropic initiatives within the Emirati community as well as her passion for horse riding.
Educated at a private institute in Dubai, Mahra later pursued higher studies in London, specialising in International Relations. Over the years, she has become a well-regarded public figure in the UAE, often supporting cultural, social, and humanitarian causes.
A relationship in the spotlight
French Montana, 39, whose real name is Karim Kharbouch, has been one of hip-hop’s most visible personalities for more than a decade. Born in Morocco and raised in the United States, Montana is best known for hits such as Unforgettable and No Stylist.
Speculation about his relationship with Sheikha Mahra had been circulating since 2024, when the pair were photographed together at mosques, fine dining venues, and Paris’ iconic Pont des Arts bridge. Despite attempts to keep their relationship private, the couple’s public appearances gradually attracted international media attention.
Previous marriages
The engagement comes shortly after Sheikha Mahra’s divorce from Emirati businessman Sheikh Mana bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, with whom she shares a daughter.
Montana was previously married to businesswoman and designer Nadeen Kharbouch between 2007 and 2014. The couple have a 16-year-old son together. Since then, the rapper has been linked with several high-profile names in the entertainment industry, though none of those relationships culminated in marriage.
What’s next for the couple?
While the engagement is now official, no details have been released about the wedding ceremony or potential celebrations in Dubai, Paris, or elsewhere. Royal weddings in the UAE typically remain closely guarded affairs, and it is not yet clear whether the event will be a private family gathering or a grand public occasion.
Fans and followers of both French Montana and Sheikha Mahra have flooded social media with congratulatory messages since the announcement. The union not only highlights the rapper’s growing international profile but also represents a rare intersection between global hip-hop culture and Middle Eastern royalty.
For now, the couple have remained silent on their future plans, leaving admirers waiting for more news about what could be one of the most talked-about weddings of the year.
