Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai and Prime Minister of the UAE, is currently seeking retrospective planning permission from the Highland Council for the unapproved installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on his extensive Inverinate Estate in Wester Ross, Scottish Highlands. The move, intended to enhance the estate's sustainability performance, has drawn scrutiny as the 63,000-acre property is situated within a designated conservation area, raising questions about adherence to local planning regulations for renewable energy projects.

The solar PV panels were installed on the roof of Loch View House, one of several properties on the Sheikh’s vast Highland estate, which overlooks Loch Duich. Representatives for the Dubai ruler assert that the panels were fitted to align the property with national and local renewable energy objectives, emphasizing their minimal visual impact. The Inverinate Estate is a sensitive ecological zone, home to protected species including Eurasian otters, pipistrelle bats, and European hedgehogs, adding a layer of environmental consideration to any development.

Documents submitted to the Highland Council indicate that the retrospective application covers not only the solar PV installation but also minor alterations to the property's ventilation system, along with plans for new staff facilities and an access road. A design statement accompanying the application claims these modifications are “necessary and beneficial” and “fully justified in terms of functional necessity, sustainability, and design integrity,” respectfully requesting the Council’s support.

Sheikh Mohammed, whose fortune is estimated at approximately £14.6 billion, has owned the Inverinate Estate for over two decades. The property includes three large houses, a cottage, two lodges, and three helipads. Notably, this application follows a separate approval granted in April for the construction of a ninth house on the estate. Local residents have expressed mixed sentiments, with some acknowledging the Sheikh’s contributions to the community but others voicing concerns over the continuous expansion of an estate that appears to be infrequently utilized. A spokesperson for the Highland Council confirmed that the planning application for Loch View House is currently under consideration, with no decision having been reached at this stage.