Dubai's ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, arrived in the Scottish Highlands with a 60-vehicle convoy to celebrate his 77th birthday. The prime minister of the United Arab Emirates traveled to his 63,000-acre Inverinate Estate, located near the village of Kyle of Lochalsh, in advance of his birthday on Wednesday.
Upon arrival at Inverness airport, the Sheikh appeared somewhat somber. However, he was later seen to be more cheerful during a hike with friends and relatives on the estate. Sheikh Maktoum has owned the Inverinate Estate for over two decades. The property features multiple houses, lodges, cottages, and helipads, in addition to a fleet of helicopters and numerous vehicles for his private use.
The arrival of his entourage, which included 20 Range Rovers and 30 Mercedes-Benz people carriers filled with staff and security, was a notable event for the local residents of Kyle of Lochalsh. One resident described the scene as having "never seen so many vehicles with blacked out windows before - or so much security."
Over the years, the Sheikh has significantly invested in his Wester Ross property. He has received planning approval for the construction of additional houses on the estate, with recent permissions granted in 2024 for an 11-bedroom mansion and a five-bedroom home. These developments have led to the estate being described by some locals as resembling a "small village" that now dominates the shoreline.
The significant vehicular presence associated with the Sheikh's visits has previously raised concerns from Transport Scotland regarding potential wear and tear on local roads. While the Sheikh's agents have indicated that visits are often conducted via coach or helicopter, supported by a small number of 4x4 vehicles, specific data on the frequency and duration of visits has not been recorded.
Inverinate Estate has also been identified as a frequent private domestic flight destination from Inverness Airport. Freedom of information requests have shown numerous departures and arrivals to and from the estate over the past three years. The estate has also seen a limited number of flights to and from Abu Dhabi in the UAE.
The Sheikh, who also holds the title of Prime Minister of the UAE, has an estimated fortune of £14.6 billion, primarily generated from real estate investments. He is recognized as a prominent global real estate developer.