Shoppers at Dubai Hills Mall got an unexpected surprise as the Dubai Ruler made an unannounced appearance
Shoppers at Dubai Hills Mall on March 31 were likely on the lookout for the latest discounts and sales, but what they got instead was something far more memorable: HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, taking a casual stroll through the popular retail destination.
Sheikh Mohammed was seen with his entourage walking past Jamie’s Italian restaurant in an Instagram story shared by the official Dubai Hills Mall Instagram account. Another Instagram story shows residents taking selfies with the Ruler in the background. The ruler also visited Géant UAE where he posed for photos with children. He was also videoed strolling through the aisles, looking at dry spices and the seafood counter.
Another Instastory on Dubai Hills Mall shared a social media photo of the Ruler with the words, ‘A special moment to have seen HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum walking among us in Dubai Hills Mall.’
Sheikh Mohammed is usually seen out and about in Dubai walking amongst the public with his entourage. The ruler was also spotted taking the Dubai Tram last year in July. Oh, and if you use the Dubai Metro, Sheikh Mohammed has been spotted numerous times on this popular mode of transport as well, at times even during rush hour.
Another royal visit
Earlier this week, shoppers were also surprised to see HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, at Dubai Mall.
On March 30, 2026, he dined at French-Mediterranean eatery La Maison Ani with His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Finance; Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group; Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed, chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation; and Uncle Saeed.
The photograph was shared on La Maison Ani’s official Instagram channel (@lamaisonanidubai). A video followed which showed the group leaving the restaurant with the words, ‘It was an honour to welcome His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum today.’
We wonder where we will spot the Royals next!
Images: Dubai Hills Mall Instagram
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