African King’s Lavish Arrival in UAE Resurfaces, Sparks Outrage
An old video of Eswatini’s King Mswati III arriving in Abu Dhabi has resurfaced online, drawing widespread criticism for showcasing the monarch’s extravagant lifestyle.
The clip, reportedly filmed in July, shows the king stepping off a private jet in traditional attire, followed by a group of elegantly dressed women—believed to be some of his 15 wives—and a large entourage of about 100 aides. A text overlay on the video claims that the king was also accompanied by 30 of his children during the trip.
According to reports, the massive royal delegation temporarily disrupted operations at the airport, forcing authorities to close multiple terminals to accommodate the king’s arrival.
Online users have condemned the opulent display, highlighting the contrast between King Mswati’s wealth and the hardships faced by his citizens.
“All this while his people have no electricity or running water,” wrote one user.
Another commented, “He travels by private jet while his people starve.”
Some even joked about his large household, asking whether there’s a “coordinator” to manage all his wives.
Lavish Lifestyle Amid Poverty
King Mswati III, Africa’s last absolute monarch, has ruled the small southern African nation since 1986. His personal fortune is estimated to exceed $1 billion, with investments in sectors like construction, tourism, agriculture, telecommunications, and forestry.
Meanwhile, Eswatini faces severe socio-economic challenges. The World Bank reported that unemployment rose from 23% to 33.3% in 2021, and nearly 60% of the population lives below the poverty line. Public hospitals face drug shortages, the education system is struggling, and many students are dropping out due to financial constraints.
King Mswati is also known for his annual Reed Dance ceremony, during which he traditionally chooses a new bride—a practice that continues to attract both admiration and criticism.
As the video circulates again, it has reignited debate over the lavish lifestyle of Eswatini’s royal family and the deep inequalities in one of Africa’s smallest nations.
News Source : Information for this article was gathered from a variety of reliable news outlets.
