Dubai had a surprise visitor today—and it wasn’t just anyone. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, made an unexpected stop at Nomad Buns, a popular local burger startup that has been making waves in the city’s food scene.
The visit was unannounced, and the Nomad Buns team was caught completely off guard. But the moment quickly turned into something unforgettable, as Sheikh Hamdan not only tried their signature burgers but also praised the brand’s dedication to sustainability, local sourcing, and quality.
For the team behind Nomad Buns, this was more than just a royal visit—it was a dream come true.
A Surprise Like No Other
Located in a cozy spot that blends modern aesthetics with a street-food vibe, Nomad Buns is a homegrown burger brand that has gained attention for doing things differently. They focus on locally sourced ingredients, eco-friendly packaging, and creative burger recipes that mix classic and contemporary flavours.
Today, customers enjoying their meals were suddenly joined by none other than Sheikh Hamdan himself. Wearing his signature white kandura and a warm smile, he greeted the staff and took time to chat with the team behind the counter.
“He was humble, friendly, and very curious about what we’re doing,” said Ahmed, one of the co-founders. “He asked about our ingredients, our suppliers, and how we make sure everything is sourced responsibly. We were honestly shocked—but also so honoured.”
Supporting Local, the Dubai Way
What stood out most during the Crown Prince’s visit was his clear interest in Nomad Buns’ commitment to using local suppliers. The beef, buns, and even the sauces are mostly made in the UAE.
Sheikh Hamdan has long been a supporter of local businesses and has repeatedly encouraged young Emiratis and residents to follow their entrepreneurial dreams. His surprise stop at Nomad Buns is a strong example of his support in action.
“He was particularly impressed with our efforts to source locally,” said Fatima, a team member. “He said supporting local farmers and small businesses is the way forward, and we completely agree.”
The Crown Prince also asked about the brand’s journey—from its launch as a small pop-up concept during the pandemic to becoming one of the most talked-about burger joints in the city.
Eco-Friendly and Proud
Another topic that caught Sheikh Hamdan’s attention was the brand’s use of sustainable packaging. Instead of plastic, Nomad Buns uses compostable materials made from plants and recycled items. Even their cutlery is biodegradable.
“We know fast food has a reputation for being wasteful,” Ahmed explained. “So, from the beginning, we said—if we’re going to do this, we need to do it responsibly. That means no plastic, no waste, and making sure we do our part for the planet.”
Sheikh Hamdan gave a nod of approval as he inspected the packaging and asked about how they manage waste. “He said sustainability should be a priority for every business in Dubai—and that really motivated us to keep doing better,” Fatima shared.
A Taste of Local Excellence
Of course, no visit to a burger joint is complete without a taste test—and Sheikh Hamdan didn’t leave without trying their best-selling “Desert Fire” burger. Packed with spicy harissa sauce, locally sourced beef, and handmade pickles, it’s one of their boldest creations.
“He loved it!” Ahmed said with a laugh. “He even asked what kind of cheese we use. It’s a local halloumi blend, by the way!”
The team also offered him a sample of their vegan burger, made with a plant-based patty and loaded with avocado, tahini sauce, and fresh greens. Sheikh Hamdan was reportedly impressed by the flavours and the idea of offering something for everyone, including non-meat eaters.
Inspiring a New Generation of Entrepreneurs
For many young business owners in Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan is more than just a leader—he’s an inspiration. His regular support for startups, especially in the food, tech, and lifestyle sectors, has helped shape the city’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
“He told us to keep pushing forward, to never settle for ‘good enough,’ and to always stay true to our values,” said Ahmed. “That kind of encouragement, coming from someone like him, means the world to us.”
The Crown Prince’s visit wasn’t just a moment of recognition—it was a symbol of how Dubai continues to support its homegrown talent. Nomad Buns may have started small, but moments like these show just how far they’ve come.
What’s Next for Nomad Buns?
After Sheikh Hamdan’s visit, Nomad Buns has seen a spike in interest—on social media, through word of mouth, and even in customer traffic. But the team says they’re not letting the excitement distract them from their goals.
“We’re still focused on quality first,” said Fatima. “We want to expand, yes, but we’ll only do it in a way that stays true to who we are—local, sustainable, and creative.”
There are already whispers of new branches opening up across Dubai and possibly even in Abu Dhabi. But for now, the team is just taking a moment to enjoy what’s been a truly unforgettable experience.
A Message That Goes Beyond Burgers
While the spotlight today was on a burger brand, the message was much bigger: Dubai continues to be a city where ideas grow, where sustainability is valued, and where leadership is deeply connected to the community.
Sheikh Hamdan’s surprise visit reminded everyone that no matter how small your startup may seem, it has the potential to reach extraordinary heights—with the right mindset, values, and a little bit of spice.
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