From souks to supermarkets: 9 spots Sheikh Mohammed surprised Dubai residents this week

Dubai: In a series of unannounced appearances across Dubai this week,  His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, was seen visiting various public spaces from malls and supermarkets to historic souks and ports often stopping to speak with residents and visitors along the way.

1. Visit to Dubai Tram

Earlier this week, commuters on the Dubai Tram were surprised to see His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum aboard the tram. A video shared by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) showed him speaking with officials as part of his ongoing efforts to personally oversee the development of Dubai’s public transport network.

2. Ride on the Dubai Metro

In another video, Sheikh Mohammed was seen riding the Dubai Metro. He exited at Mall of the Emirates station and walked into the mall. His presence drew the attention of surprised commuters, many of whom gathered to take photos and videos.

3. Stop at Cipriani in Mall of the Emirates

Inside the Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Mohammed visited the well-known Italian café, Cipriani. On his way out, he paused to greet residents, chat briefly with them, and pose for photos. He was also seen interacting warmly with children in the crowd.

4. Drive through Deira

On Tuesday, Sheikh Mohammed was spotted driving through the busy streets of Deira. Shopkeepers and pedestrians stepped outside to watch as his car passed by, with many recording the moment on their phones.

5. Walk through Old Souk Deira

Later that day, the Dubai ruler was seen walking through the narrow lanes of the Old Souk in Deira. He stopped to greet residents and tourists alike, continuing his spontaneous outreach in one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods.

6. Visit to DP World at Mina Al Hamriya

Sheikh Mohammed also visited DP World’s site at Mina Al Hamriya to review the port’s development. During the visit, he spoke about Dubai’s vision to enhance its ports into efficient, future-ready gateways for global trade.

7. Surprise visit to Dubai’s iconic food markets

During the week, Sheikh Mohammed paid a visit to the Deira Waterfront Market, which has served the community since 1958 and was revamped in 2017. The market is a vibrant hub for seafood lovers, blending traditional charm with contemporary design.

Later, he made his way to the Dubai Central Fruit and Vegetable Market in Al Aweer, also known as the Dubai Municipality Fruit and Vegetable Market in Ras Al Khor.

8. Return to Mall of the Emirates

Later in the week, Sheikh Mohammed returned to Mall of the Emirates. This time, he was seen walking through the aisles of a supermarket, believed to be Carrefour. Shoppers stood aside, many smiling and recording the moment as he passed by. At one point, a woman was heard calling out, “We love you!”

9. Visit to Dubai Hills Mall

He was also seen at Dubai Hills Mall, walking through Geant Supermarket and later stopping at a café. As in his other visits, residents reacted with warmth and excitement, with many capturing the encounter on camera.

Throughout the week, Sheikh Mohammed’s appearances highlighted his approachability and deep connection with the city. Whether speaking to residents in a tram station or walking through a supermarket, his visits reflected a leadership style grounded in presence and personal engagement something many Dubai residents clearly appreciated.