Viral video: Sheikh Mohammed watches over turtle returning home to the sea against stunning sunset

The UAE's beloved leader His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has always had a soft heart for animals whether they are on land, in the air, or in water — from horses to birds. Today, World Turtle Day, a video of the UAE Vice-President and Dubai Ruler has garnered hundreds of hearts: It showed him bidding adieu to a turtle that was returning to its natural habitat.

It was an undated video that captured a timeless gesture Sheikh Mohammed has long been known for.

In the clip, he is seen standing, watching the medium-sized turtle paddle its way out of the shore and into the water.

Sheikh Mohammed just kept his eyes on the gentle reptile as it took its sweet time savouring the sunset on its way home.

Here's the clip:

This is not the first time the Dubai Ruler was seen with turtles. In 2016, a touching video of him releasing a giant Hawksbill turtle made headlines. That clip recorded over 34,500 views and hundreds of comments just a few hours after it was posted.

Protecting wildlife and marine creatures is part of the UAE's green agenda as a whole. In celebration of World Turtle Day on Tuesday, Sharjah Aquarium released eight medium-to-large Green and Hawksbill turtles into the sea off Al Hamriyah beach. Both these species are already classified as 'endangered'.

The released turtles — which ranged from 5 to 30 years old — have undergone rehabilitation after being found in poor condition, as part of a dedicated programme that rehabilitate sick or injured turtles.

Other UAE royals have also joined the cause, as shown in initiatives recorded over the years.

• Abu Dhabi’s efforts to protect marine life get UN recognition