Dubai's ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, arrived in the Scottish Highlands with a 60-vehicle convoy to begin celebrations for his 77th birthday. The Sheikh, who also serves as the Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, traveled to his 63,000-acre Inverinate Estate near Kyle of Lochalsh.
The royal was observed looking somber upon arrival at Inverness airport. However, he appeared more cheerful during a hike with family and friends on the estate. The Inverinate Estate, owned by the Sheikh for over two decades, is a vast property that includes multiple houses, cottages, lodges, and helipads, along with a private fleet of helicopters and vehicles.
The arrival of his entourage, comprising 20 Range Rovers and 30 Mercedes-Benz people carriers filled with staff and security, was a notable event for the approximately 590 residents of Kyle of Lochalsh. One local described the scene as unprecedented, remarking on the number of vehicles with blacked-out windows and the extensive security presence.
Over the years, the Sheikh has expanded his property, receiving planning approval for the construction of several new houses. In 2024, he was granted permission for an 11-bedroom mansion and a separate five-bedroom home. These developments, managed through his company Smech Properties Ltd., have led to the estate being described by some locals as resembling a 'small village' along the shoreline.
Transport Scotland had previously expressed concerns regarding the potential wear and tear on local roads from the Sheikh's frequent visits and the cumulative traffic impact of his large retinue. His agents indicated that visits are typically made by coach or helicopter, supported by a small fleet of 4x4 vehicles for shooting parties, but noted a lack of recorded data on visit frequency or duration.
The estate has also seen instances where developments required retrospective planning permission, such as the installation of solar panels. The Prime Minister of the UAE has invested significantly in the Wester Ross property. Freedom of information requests have identified Inverinate Estate as a frequent private domestic flight destination from Inverness Airport, with numerous departures and arrivals recorded over the past three years, including some flights to and from Abu Dhabi.