One cannot match the bottomless pits of royal wealth. The same can be said for their style, a natural by-product of being born into, thriving, and living in utmost luxury. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan raised the bar higher than ever; they landed in the Eastern Cape this week with an entourage of 500, including staff, protectors, doctors, and entertainers. That’s not even the bewildering bit of the story. The fact that the ruler of Abu Dhabi got a personal R20-million ($1.10 million) runway built with his own money for the trip is the jaw-dropping slice of the report.
The royals are on a two-week visit to the province and will spend their time at another lavish possession- a private game resort between Makhanda and Bedford. The Eastern Cape Premier’s spokesperson Khuselwa Rantjie told the media, “The provincial government is negotiating the possibility of a joint investment project to raise standards at the government-owned Bhisho Airport in line with requirements of an International cargo airport as a start. The province is working hard to strengthen trade relations with the UAE in various areas, including education, agriculture, renewable energy, oil and gas, research and innovation, as well as partnerships in the aviation economy.”
He added, “The Bhisho Airport has, in line with South Africa’s protocols, been in the interim designated as a port of entry to enable the passage of the UAE leader. All relevant resources have been put in place at the airport to ensure adherence with the laws of the country.” Those who thought nothing could beat the customized gold escalator of the King of Saudi Arabia to descend from his private Boeing 747 Jumbo jet, the ruler of Abu Dhabi, arranged for an entirely new runway!
In addition, the large group also carried their own furniture, cars, and gym equipment, ensuring their 14-day trip in the Eastern Cape was sans compromise and inconveniences.
The royal family of Abu Dhabi concludes the month of Ramadaan with a luxury safari holiday-
South Africa’s Eastern Cape hosted UAE royals to celebrate Eid amidst nature and scenic beauty. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and his entourage landed at Bhisho Airport this week. “The UAE president is undertaking a private visit and is expected to explore the beauty of the Eastern Cape,” said Khuselwa Rantjie, Eastern Cape’s Provincial Government spokesperson. The family has their own private game resort that will easily accommodate a large group of 500 in addition to the Al-Nahyan family. The location is well-known for lodges offering fantastic family safaris or exclusive private safaris.
At this time of the year, the Eastern Cape is a haven boasting a pleasant temperature. From lush surroundings, nippy evening breeze, and toasty fires, it truly is a captivating destination. Eastern Cape Premier Lubabalo Oscar Mabuyane said the province hopes to use this opportunity to convince UAE citizens that the Eastern Cape is both a tourist and an investment destination. Thus, hosting their president is a crucial step in that regard. The Middle Eastern royals are indeed setting the benchmark for the good life!
