Vogue Arabia, February 2023. Photo: Pierfrancesco Artini
The Vogue Ball of Arabia is back! One of the most anticipated gatherings in the region, this year’s event promises to be more than worth the wait. Expect the same festivity and grandeur you know and love, with a new theme that is bound to enchant, and a message that resonates through the region and beyond.
What is Ball of Arabia 2024’s theme?
When The Little Mermaid made her silver screen comeback in May 2023, no one could have predicted that mermaids would become a global obsession. With Halle Bailey’s Ariel came a slew of underwater mavens, mesmerizing the world with their glistening tails, luxurious waves, and ethereal beauty. Netflix gave us MerPeople, and almost simultaneously, fashion gave us brand new renditions of these mystical beings. Gucci’s Cruise 2024 presentation took inspiration from the sea with neoprene gowns and surfboards, Louis Vuitton relied on scuba bralettes and water stain prints to tell the story of sirens emerging from the lake, and on red carpets, pearl-drenched gowns, scalloped hems and netted dresses serenaded the world.
As fashion’s love for underwater elements continues, the Ball of Arabia is taking the opportunity to pay homage to the sea with this year’s magical, mystical theme: Mermaids of the Gulf. For generations, the Arabian sea has played an imperative role in the Gulf region, serving as the very centre of its economy and connecting the Middle East with the rest of the world. The UAE, for one, shares a rich history with pearl diving, flourishing between the 19th and 21st centuries as divers discovered some of the finest pearls in the world in their waters.
The sea holds a prized position in the region, and so, the ball invites guests to take a deep dive into the waters to find inspiration for this year’s dress code. The only rule: no look is too bold or too glamorous. But in the midst of the glitz, 2024’s theme also aims to return to the sea the same kindness that it has given the people of Arabia. Read on to know more.
2024’s Ball of Arabia will support a very special cause
The high-energy luxury celebration, which will bring together an exclusive guest list of royalty, style icons, and VIPs from the region and abroad, will stand out for more than a few reasons in 2024. Along with its usual style and aplomb, the upcoming Ball of Arabia will use its whimsical theme to draw attention to our collective responsibility for our waterbodies’ cleanliness and conservation.
This year, the Ball of Arabia has partnered with Emirates Marine Environmental Group (EMEG), established in 1996 under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Manal bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and leadership awarded to Major Ali Saqer Sultan Al Suwaidi. Using its ever-growing reach, the 2024 edition will dedicate itself to raising awareness about EMEG’s incredible efforts to preserve biodiversity in the United Arab Emirates.
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Get ready for a grand venue and decor by a celebrity Lebanese creative…
All set to take off on February 15, the 2024 edition of the Ball of Arabia will take place at Dubai’s most luxurious hotel, Atlantis the Royal, in partnership with Hongqi, Amaffi and Komos. Ever since the sprawling property opened its doors in February 2023, Atlantis the Royal has become a favorite in the emirate, bringing together celebrity guests from Beyoncé to Lady Amelia Spencer, and very soon, Vogue Arabia’s sparkling guest list too.
Photo: Courtesy Toni Breiss
As always, the decor for the ball will be something to behold, as a theme of limitless inspiration calls for an alluring ambiance. To that end, Vogue Arabia has enlisted beloved Lebanese event designer Toni Breiss to work his magic. The man behind the decor of some of the world’s most extravagant celebrations and beautiful weddings is no stranger to making dreams come true, counting the likes of Tiffany Trump, HRH Princess Lana Al Faisal, the Al Nahyan family, and the Al Yahya family among his loyalists. Now, he’s all set to lend his magic touch to the ball to create a spectacular ambience fit for royalty.
…And a star-studded guest list featuring the region’s favorite faces
In attendance will be a slew of renowned luminaries from around the world, with the previous editions of the ball welcoming actors like Mona Zaki, Nadine Nassib Njeim, Dorra Zarrouk, and many more. Make sure to also keep an eye out for a very special selection of stars from the fashion and entertainment industries, as we reveal the names closer to the big day.
Meet this year’s much-awaited musical performer
Loreen for Vogue Arabia, July/August 2023. Photo: Simonas Berukstis
Over the years, the Ball of Arabia has earned quite the following for its regal venues, impeccably dressed guests, and out-of-the-box themes. Among its many attractions, of course, is the special musical performance of the evening. After having the likes of Ciara, Kadim al-Sahir and Leona Lewis taking the stage previously, the 2024 edition of the ball will see another globally-renowned artist in the spotlight. Get ready to see none other than Moroccan-Swedish musician and two-time Eurovision winner Loreen at the event. Come February 15, the multi-hyphenate will light up Atlantis the Royal with an unforgettable performance. If you’re a fan of the Arab musician’s greatest hits — think Tattoo, Euphoria, Is It Love, and more — this is one private concert you won’t want to miss.
Save the date for the Vogue Ball of Arabia taking place on February 15, 2024, at Atlantis the Royal, and watch this space for more details.
