Inside UAE president’s SA holiday

The UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan jetted into South Africa for a holiday – and brought helicopters, cars, guns, furniture and a delegation of at least 500 guests for his stay.

Since his landing, the South African government has been questioned whether everything was done according to the book.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has since a**ured that ministers will give detailed information regarding his UAE counterpart’s visit.

ALSO READ: Ministers to address concerns over UAE President’s extravagant visit to Eastern Cape

INSIDE UAE ROYAL FAMILY CAPE TOWN GETAWAY

The UAE President landed in the Eastern Cape with hundreds of guests at the Bulembu Airport.

The airport was used as an official “temporary” port of entry for the president and his VIP delegation.

News24 reports the UAE president brought along 500 guests for a two-week visit at a private game reserve he owns in the province.

ALSO READ: UAE president lands on R20m runway he built for himself in Eastern Cape

A government official revealed that on Wednesday alone, the airport had 15 air traffic ‘movements’ at the airport.

TimesLive reported that he brought along with him helicopters while News24 revealed that a cargo plane landed with five choppers, with one of the choppers being an air ambulance

The other was said to be for transport, with one for the protection unit and two for supplies.

ALSO READ: Ramaphosa says ministers to provide explanation on UAE President’s visit

The publication also revealed that the royal family and guests brought furniture and gym equipment.

A fleet of cars was also reported to have been brought in for their two-week stay in the Eastern Cape.

GOVERNMENT CLEARS THE AIR ON UAE PRESIDENT VISIT

Minister in the presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni revealed that the hosting of the UAE president conforms to international diplomatic standards and was fully compliant with South African laws.

Police minister Bheki Cele also revealed that the visiting delegation brought several hunting guns with them.

The police regulated them and allowed a limited number of firearms and several pieces of ammunition, according to South African laws.

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