The Dubai Expat Diaries

The grand opening party at The Atlantis Palm Jumeirah a couple of days ago was definitely the talk of the town here in Dubai, with the most expensive lighting and fireworks show the world has seen (that too when the world’s slowing slipping into a recession!). Here is a sneak peek at the spectacular Dubai Atlantis Opening Party:

Organisers spent US$20 million (Dh73.5m) to put on the party for 2,000-plus guests, who had to pass through three security checkpoints in their vehicles and another on foot. A few of the biggest stars promised or rumoured did not show, including the chat show host Oprah Winfrey, who stayed in the US, and Ben Affleck, the actor, who flew to visit refugee camps in Congo.  Once inside, guests sipped Dom Pérignon in a crowd that included Lindsay Lohan, the actress; Lily Allen and Natalie Imbruglia, the singers; Michael Jordan, the basketball star; Sarah Ferguson, the duchess of York; and Sir Richard Branson, the business magnate, who attended with his family. Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, the executive chairman of Nakheel, the hotel developer and operator, said: Im thrilled and proud. Five years ago where I am standing now was water. The event featured the worlds largest fireworks show and a private concert from the Australian singer Kylie Minogue, who made her Middle East debut. Giant Arabic mosaics were projected onto the side of the hotel throughout the evening. Source: Youtube / The National

Here’s another insider video from the Dubai Atlantis Opening Party, as Dubai.TV’s Janeen Mansour hits The Star Studded Atlantis Palm Dubai Grand Opening and talks to a few of the stars:

SKY News reports live from the Dubai Atlantis Opening Party and talks to Kylie Minogue:

A video clip of Kylie Minogue’s Dubai Atlantis Opening Party performance taken by a viewer:

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