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In a quiet yet meaningful update (and after a long pause from social media), Her Highness Sheikha Mahra bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has returned with a new name on Instagram – and it’s a subtle nod to her Greek name.
The daughter of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has continually been in touch with her mixed Emirati and Greek roots. And it seems her new Instagram name, “Xtianna,” pays homage to her birth name, Christina, a thoughtful nod to her Greek heritage through her mother, Zoe Grigorakos.
Taking to Instagram over the weekend, the sheikha made a soft return with a post highlighting her updated username to her 1.1 million followers in a black and white post.
With devoted fans and followers quick to notice the subtle change on the Instagram platform, many were left puzzled and continued to speculate about the next phase of the sheikha’s life might be.
Others, however, commended her for reconnecting with her roots, seeing it as a personal tribute to her identity with many commenting their blessings and support.
HH Sheikha Mahra Al Maktoum Pays Homage To Her Greek Roots On Her Mother’s Side

The sheikha has long had a deep connection to her Greek background through her mother, Zoe.
Whether through family photos or cultural celebrations, she always makes a way to pay homage to her multifaceted identity.
Last year, the Sheikha observed Greek Independence Day on March 25, taking the opportunity to pay homage to her Greek roots on her mother’s side and shared a picture of the flag being displayed on the tower with a blue heart.
Later in 2024, the Emirati princess shared a series of photos on social media as she met with Antonis Alexandris, the Greek ambassador based in Dubai.
Who is Sheikha Mahra’s mother, Zoe Grigorakos?
Her Highness is no stranger to celebrating her mixed heritage being of both Emirati and Greek roots.
Born to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and Zoe Grigorakos.
It’s not known when the princess’ parents married, but Sheikha Mahra was born in 1994, where she was given the name, Christina. The pair eventually divorced, but Zoe appears to still reside in the UAE, as she is often seen out and about with her daughter.
Sheikha Mahra shares a strong familial bond with her Greek side from her mother’s ancestry. Always in her photos, the Dubai Sheikha constantly uploads moments with her mother, Zoe, as seen on her Instagram feed.