A surprising scene from Dubai has captured global attention. Indian billionaire MA Yusuff Ali, chairperson of the Lulu Group, was seen boarding a public city bus and greeting the driver warmly in Hindi. The video clip quickly spread online, with many users praising his down-to-earth gesture.
In the short video shared on TikTok by user Sajjad Fardese, Ali steps onto the bus, exchanges a friendly handshake with the driver, and asks in Hindi, “Kaise ho? Theek ho?” — meaning “How are you? Are you well?” The simple act has drawn wide attention because Ali is one of the wealthiest Indians abroad.
Who is MA Yusuff Ali?
MA Yusuff Ali is an Indian-born billionaire and the chairman and managing director of Lulu Group International. The group operates a large network of hypermarkets, malls, and retail outlets across the Gulf region and India.
According to Forbes and media estimates, his personal net worth is around $5.9 billion as of late 2025. This makes him one of the richest Indian expatriates in the Middle East. MA Yusuff Ali hails from Nattika in Kerala and built his retail empire over decades, starting from humble beginnings in the UAE before expanding globally.
Why the Bus Ride Made Headlines?
Billionaires are usually seen in private jets or luxury cars. So when a business titan like Yusuff Ali rode a public city bus like any ordinary commuter, viewers found it noteworthy. Many netizens praised his humility and simple approach.
Social media users reacted strongly, with many calling him “humble,” “grounded” and “approachable.” Some said the gesture showed a contrast to typical billionaire lifestyles.
MA Yusuf fAli Connections With UAE Leadership
The video surfaced not long after Ali shared a personal moment involving Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
Ali posted a photo on Instagram holding a copy of Sheikh Mohammed’s book “Lessons from Life: Part I,” personally signed by the ruler. The handwritten note read:
“Dear Yusuff Ali MA, wisdom is the only inheritance that grows richer the more we share it. May you enjoy the read.”
In his caption, Ali wrote that he was “extremely thankful” for receiving the signed book and praised Sheikh Mohammed as a visionary leader with great wisdom and knowledge.”
This gesture reflects the respect and strong ties between Ali and the UAE leadership.
Lulu Group: A Global Retail Force
Under MA Yusuf Ali’s leadership, Lulu Group has expanded rapidly. It now runs hundreds of stores, hypermarkets, and malls in the Gulf and India. The company also plans major investments across Indian states, promising jobs and economic growth.
Ali’s business success and leadership have repeatedly earned him recognition among top Indian and global business figures. He has also been honoured for philanthropic efforts, including major contributions to social causes.
Public Reaction: Admiration and Inspiration
The simple video resonated with people across India and the Middle East. Many saw it as a reminder that wealth and humility can coexist. Users noted that despite his vast wealth and international stature, Ali’s friendly interaction with a bus driver was a refreshing moment of normalcy.
Some comments online described him as a role model for future business leaders, while others pointed out that his actions reflect well on Indians living and working abroad.