DUBAI // Hollywood star Gerard Butler was greeted by big crowds of fans during his visit to Dubai Mall for a promotional campaign on Friday.
The 46-year-old Scot, who has starred in hit films including 300 and PS I Love You, was launching a new Hugo Boss fragrance, Man of Today.
The first 80 people to buy it were able to have their picture taken with the actor and were given his autograph.
“Culturally, it’s just so different for me coming from where I come from. I’m not above taking photos of this and sending it to my mum in Scotland,” Butler said in his sole promotional appearance, albeit on his fourth visit, to Dubai.
Many fans of the actor were queuing for two hours and more to get a chance to meet the star, with one shaking and crying with anticipation.
Lebanese expatriate Rula Hamid, 34, was one of the first to arrive. “I am such a fan of this guy,” she said.
“I’ve seen so many of his movies. To me he’s such an action hero, so getting the chance to meet him has been amazing.”
Butler’s appearance at Paris Gallery was punctuated by screams from male and female fans as shoppers realised what was going on.
Ahmed bin Sulaiman, 27, came with his friend to meet Butler.
“We hadn’t actually planned this but when we realised this was happening today, it seemed like a great opportunity,” he said.
“I’ve seen some of his movies, so what a great thing to do at the weekend and tell your friends.”
Filipino Flor Ruez, 39, bought the fragrance just to meet her cinematic hero.
“I will give this as a gift to my husband back home but I really wanted to meet Gerard Butler. He’s such a good actor and this is something special for me to do here in Dubai.”
Butler was also welcomed by his fellow Scots, one waving the Saltire flag and another donning a tartan handbag, as he shouted: “Give me a cheer anyone from Scotland.”
Known as a style icon, Butler was impressed with the sartorial flair of Emirati men. “I love how men here think about their heritage and work within that to keep their masculinity,” he said.
Scottish expatriate Helen Ross, 31, said the actor was one of Scotland’s most famous global superstars.
“So we’re always super proud when Scottish actors make it big in Hollywood,” she said.
“It’s great to be able to be here and show some support. I probably wouldn’t even have got this close to him back home, so doing this out here is so exciting.
“He’s such a heartthrob, but he seems to be such a sweet, down-to-earth guy too. I’m so happy to have got to meet him.”
