Accession Day: 10 times Sheikh Mohammed won UAE residents' hearts in surprise visits through the years

As UAE Vice-President His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum marks 17 years as the Ruler of Dubai today, tributes are pouring in from all corners, highlighting how his incredible vision has created the world-class, futuristic city the emirate has become.

In Dubai — with its skyscrapers and out-of-this-world missions— the sky was never the limit because, for Sheikh Mohammed, "the sky is only the beginning".

While Sheikh Mohammed is constantly pushing the emirate to new heights, he had never lost sight of the ground. Both Emiratis and expats would instantly recognise the three-finger salute he would give to send love and inspiration, and no one would miss his car whenever it hits the roads.

Still, some residents and tourists were luckier than most, as they were able to meet and even greet the Dubai Ruler during the several instances he surprised the public. Sheikh Mohammed never forgets his people, both citizens and expats, and it has always shown.

Here are 10 times he won people's hearts in surprise visits through the years:

2008: Building a new home for an Emirati

The Dubai Ruler saw a father figure in Salem Khamis Al Kaabi, a citizen he had known for years. In fact, it was his late father Sheikh Rashid who ordered that a house be built for the Emirati and his family at Wadi Al Qoor. During the meeting in 2008, Sheikh Mohammed asked that a new home be constructed for Salem.

2011: Coffee, anyone?

During a drive in the desert, Sheikh Mohammed saw tourists enjoying the scenery. Showing them true Arabian hospitality, he took out a pot of Emrati coffee (gahwa) from his car and served it to them.

2011: A ride on the Dubai Metro

Encouraging residents to make the most of the city's world-class public transport, Sheikh Mohammed took a surprise Metro ride.

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2013: Lunch at a university cafeteria

Students at UAE University in Al Ain was having their break when, all of a sudden, a VIP arrived to eat with them. The visit comes as part of Sheikh Mohammed's efforts to ensure that the varsity is getting all they need to provide world-class education.

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2016: Coming together for iftar

Sheikh Mohammed joined young recruits for Iftar at the National Service School of the Presidential Guard, taking a moment to listen to their stories and aspirations.

2016: A visit to government offices

Employees at four government offices in Dubai were shocked to find a surprise visitor coming for an inspection.

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