Sheikh Mohammed surprises camel riders on way to Expo 2020 Dubai

  DUBAI – A group of camel riders who are part of a desert caravan in the Liwa Empty Quarter got a surprise guest on their way to Expo 2020: The Dubai ruler himself! Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, met the 29 surprised camel riders to wish them well on their journey. Sheikh Mohammed drove up in his Mercedes-AMG G 63 SUV to meet the group on Monday morning (December 20) at Seeh Al Salam in Dubai. The riders travelled from Abu Dhabi’s Liwa Empty Quarter starting on December 9 with the goal of reaching the Expo 2020 site in Dubai within 13 days. The group—made up of riders from 21 countries—are part of the largest desert caravan organized by Hamdan bin Mohammed Heritage Centre. Among the riders are award-winning Filipino sand artist Nathaniel Alapide and Spain's David Benito. The group is expected to arrive at the Al Forsan Park of Expo 2020 Dubai at 6pm on Tuesday (December 21). Hamdan bin Mohammed Heritage Centre CEO Abdullah Hamdan bin Dalmook said the initiative is part of efforts to showcase the UAE's heritage and culture. “It is a matter of pride and honour that we showcase the UAE’s cultural heritage at the world’s biggest stage,” Dalmook said. ICA/Expat Media

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