A routine store inauguration in Sharjah’s Kalba turned into a viral moment after businessman Yusuff Ali gifted a young girl an iPhone 17 during the event.
The incident took place on Saturday at the opening of a Lulu Hypermarket outlet on Al Wahda Street in Kalba. The child had accompanied her father, Dr Ahmed Saeed Al Mazrouei, Director at Kalba Municipality, who was attending as the chief guest.
A Simple Question, An Unexpected Answer
Among the attendees was Dr Ahmed Saeed Al Mazrouei, Director at Kalba Municipality, who was present as the chief guest. Accompanying him was his young daughter, dressed in a blue frock, who soon became the center of attention.
As the delegation toured the newly opened store, the child appeared restless. Noticing this, Yusuff Ali turned toward her and gently asked if she would like a toy to keep herself occupied.
A video circulating online captures the moment he offered her a toy robot. However, instead of accepting it, the girl confidently said she wanted an iPhone 17. The candid response drew laughter from those standing nearby.
From Laughter to Surprise
Rather than dismissing the request, Yusuff Ali immediately signalled to his team. Within minutes, staff returned with a boxed iPhone 17. He personally handed it to the young girl, who received it with visible excitement and pride.
The brief interaction, though lighthearted, resonated strongly with onlookers. Witnesses described it as spontaneous and heartfelt, noting how naturally the exchange unfolded.
Soon after, clips of the moment began circulating on social media, where the video quickly gained traction and sparked widespread reactions.
A Leader Known Beyond Retail
Yusuff Ali, Chairman and Managing Director of Lulu Group International, is one of the most prominent Indian-origin business figures in the UAE. His business empire spans hypermarkets, shopping malls, and financial services across the region.
Recently reappointed to the Board of Directors of the Abu Dhabi Chamber by decision of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, he remains a key figure in the UAE’s business landscape. His estimated net worth stands at around $5.8 billion.
More Than Just a Store Opening
While the Kalba outlet inauguration marked another milestone in Lulu Group’s expansion, it was this brief and unscripted moment that captured public attention.
For most attendees, it was a standard corporate event. For one young girl, however, it became an unforgettable day, defined by a simple request and an unexpected gesture.
Credit: Khaleej Times
