Thousands flock to Dubai mall to meet David Beckham

Thousands flocked to Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates on Tuesday to catch a glimpse of footballing legend David Beckham.

The mall, which is usually quite calm on a week day afternoon drew to a standstill as thousands of fans packed the place as the star attended the opening a new interactive adidas HomeCourt concept store.

While most struggled to get close, the former England captain helped to make the dreams of 30 competition winners come true as posed with them and their friends and families.

The winners had taken part in a completion organized by Instagram.

Speaking after the opening Beckham said he always loved visiting the Emirate.

He added: “Spending some time here today, it was great to get a sense of the energy people have for sport. In Dubai I’ve met people from all around the world who are united in their passion for sport.”

The event took place on Tuesday at Dubai’s mall of the Emirates, which is best known for its iconic indoor ski slope and snow-based theme park.

Competition winner Rayyan Lodhi, 13, was one of the lucky few to get up close and personal with everyone’s favourite. He said: “Beckham is my idol, it was amazing to meet him. I’m not a Manchester United fan but everyone loves watching Beckham. Today was my birthday so we just talked about that, and he wished my happy birthday.”

And Ayaan Nadeem, 11, from Dubai, who also was a winner said: “That was my dream. He’s always been my role model. Who couldn’t love him? Not only is he one of the greatest players, he gives so much to charity.”

Becks also met members of the Zayed University ladies football team.

Amal Aal Rabeea, of the UAE national football team and coach of Zayed University ladies team, said: “He’s the reason I play. He’s been my inspiration, I’ve followed him in every league and every club he’s played for.”