A short video filmed on a public bus in Dubai has unexpectedly put Lulu Group chairman MA Yusuff Ali in the spotlight—not for a business achievement, but for a quiet, human moment that struck a chord online.
A handshake that went viral
The clip, first shared on TikTok by user Sajjad Fardese, shows the Indian billionaire boarding a Dubai bus and greeting the driver with a warm handshake. Speaking in Hindi, Ali asks, “Kaise ho? Theek ho?” (How are you? Are you well?), before taking his seat.
The simplicity of the exchange—especially on public transport—quickly resonated. As the video spread across platforms, users praised Ali as “down-to-earth” and “humble”, noting how rare such gestures appear in an era of curated celebrity moments.
Social media recalls similar moments
As comments poured in, several users shared personal encounters that echoed the same theme. One recalled Ali stopping his luxury car in the desert to pray, improvising with cardboard when a prayer mat wasn’t available—an anecdote that further fuelled admiration.
Others speculated about why a billionaire was using public transport, but many agreed the question missed the point. What stood out was the ease with which Ali interacted, treating the bus driver with the same respect as anyone else.
A week of personal highlights
The viral bus moment followed closely after Ali shared another personal milestone on Instagram—receiving a personally signed copy of “Lessons from Life: Part I” from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
In his post, Ali expressed gratitude for the signed book and praised the Sheikh’s wisdom, noting the inspiration it offers to present and future generations. A handwritten note inside the book added a personal touch to the exchange.
Wealth, work—and humility
MA Yusuff Ali is the chairman and managing director of Lulu Group, which runs over 250 hypermarkets and malls across the Gulf region and India. Forbes estimates his net worth at over $5.9 billion.
Yet, for many viewers—particularly from India and Karnataka, where Lulu has a strong presence—the bus video carried a powerful message: humility still matters. In a world often dazzled by status, a handshake and a few kind words proved enough to leave a lasting impression.