Princess Haya, 45, fled to London after her billionaire husband, ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, 69, became suspicious of her close relationship with a British bodyguard, whom she reportedly used family money to give lavish gifts.

Sheikh Mohammed accused her of becoming too close to the bodyguard who is a former British Army officer, the security officer was employed by a London-based company believed to be owned by the Dubai government.

The Oxford-educated princess reportedly used family money to give lavish gifts to the unnamed bodyguard.

Princess is half-sister of the King of Jordan. She married Sheikh Mohammed in 2004 and is an accomplished show-jumper.

Unconfirmed reports state that she has also taken son Zayed, seven, and daughter Al Jalila, 11, with her.

Sheikh Mohammed, 69, is vice-president and prime minister of the United Arab Emirates, as well as leader of the Emirate of Dubai. He is believed to be worth £9billion.

The end of his marriage is a fresh blow to the Sheik after one of his daughters – Princess Latifa bint Mohammed Maktoum, 33 – attempted to escape last year before being captured on a boat off the Indian coast.

Princess Latifa said abuse forced her to flee the kingdom – and human rights groups claim she is being held in captivity in Dubai.