The Sheik, is a big time philanthroper, and is a not the 'run-of-the-mill' Sheiks as most arabs are painted as .. and is one of the most progressive Sheiks in the region, encouraging female education and euqality ..
I heard from the guys who had the privilege of working with Sheik Al Maktoum - all they had to do was 'inform in advance' and 100% permission would have been given if requested.
I guess with all the kidnapping and hijackings, nobody will be amused of a helicopter dropping in suddenly, regardless whether it was dressed as an air ambulance or not.