Youssef Mohammed Abdullah caught the attention of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for his inspiring dedication to work and cheerful service.

In a recent tweet, as a "diligent man" committed to completing transactions efficiently, sharing pictures of him in action. 

Youssef, 46, who lives in Sharjah and works at the vehicle registration centre in Al Qusais, a branch of the Emirates National Oil Company (Enoc), was overwhelmed by the recognition.   

Speaking exclusively to Khaleej Times, he said, “I was in the lobby with a client when I was told there was a post from Sheikh Mohammed about me. I asked, 'Me?' I couldn’t believe it at first until my customer showed me."

Youssef Mohammed Abdullah

He went on to share, “I thought it might be fake, and I checked it myself during my break. I was overjoyed, and tears filled my eyes. Shortly after, I received calls from various people.”

Youssef’s dedication to is nothing short of inspiring. He works long hours, including four-hour shifts during Ramadan and covers between 9 and 10km a day.

“During Ramadan, we serve between 200 and 300 clients daily, working six days a week. On regular days, I work an eight-hour shift, which is often busier,” he shared.

Despite his busy schedule, Youssef remains focused on delivering proactive service. He explained, “I don't want customers to get lost; I want to address problems from the start.”

His preparedness is key to ensuring smooth and efficient interactions with clients. “The challenges are a part of the job; I assist my colleagues in coordination. We try to work together,” he added.

Photo: X/Sheikh Mohammed

Youssef's compassion shone through as he described his interactions with customers, especially the elderly or those facing difficulties with paperwork. "I take the customer by the hand, being kind to the elderly and compassionate towards those who cannot manage, especially if their documents are not accepted. Cars are a source of happiness, and I ensure they leave satisfied."

"I don’t let them leave without helping as much as I can,” he underscored.

His patience and kindess play a vital role in his approach to customer service. “When I enter work, my mood must be excellent. I have a rule: A customer might upset me, but I don’t upset them. I patiently listen, absorb their anger, and give them a smile,” Youssef shared, believing that a kind word and a smile can help ease any customer frustration.

Youssef has had several memorable experiences that reflect his dedication. One involved assisting an elderly man who needed to export his car but didn’t realise the additional inspection and costs required.

“He didn’t understand that inspection outside the country meant he had to undergo another inspection and incur additional costs. While the export process itself is quick, the registration requires a thorough inspection of the car, which would ultimately cost him more," Youssef shared.

“We solved the problem in half an hour. I stood with him, even changed the tire, and he said he was very satisfied. That man hugged me and prayed for me and my family for three minutes," he added.

Another moment that stood out for Youssef was when he helped a woman whose car had been rejected due to tinting. Instead of just advising her, he took action and removed the tint for her, showing his commitment to going above and beyond for his customers. 

Youssef firmly believes in the power of teamwork and leadership. “Regardless of your position, strive to be number one. Follow the principles of leadership and your coach. Hard work will get you there,” he advised.

With 25 years of , Youssef now serves as a trainer, fostering a culture of support and collaboration in his workplace. “The praise is not just for me, but for all my colleagues and management. We are one team, and when a client comes to me, they also see my colleagues. The whole work is integrated teamwork,” he stressed.

Youssef’s story is a powerful reminder of how kindness, dedication, and a focus on teamwork can inspire excellence in public service. His actions set a remarkable example for others to follow, encouraging everyone to give their best in their respective roles.