Guests gathered at the Dubai Opera last night to celebrate the partnership between Mastercard and Vogue Arabia. Aptly named “Fashion On A Plate”, the event saw a theatrical amalgamation of fashion and food.
In attendance were Mastercard Middle East and Africa’s President Raghu Malhotra, Division President Khalid Elgibaly and Head of Marketing and Communications, Beatrice Cornacchia. Introducing Mastercard as a “global company with a local touch”, Cornachhia took the stage to announce the partnership, “We are strong believers that they [Vogue Arabia] are the best partners in this part of the world to give the right balance between fashion and dining.” The collaboration aims to create unique dining experiences for their consumers who will be treated to “priceless surprises”.
Highlighting the importance of cultural institutions in the region, Vogue Arabia’s Editor-in-Chief Manuel Arnaut said, “It is so important for companies like Mastercard to support Dubai Opera and cultural institutions. We really need to nurture a culture where we support the arts and this is also something we try to achieve every month with the magazine through our editorial calendar.”
The event started with Austrian Soprano Bettina Schweiger serenading the guests. She ended her performance on a high note, the opera singer sang the familiar theme tune of Mastercard’s Sonic brand.
Syrian couturier Rami Al Ali brought his expertise to the event by adding stylish nuances to the menu, the decor, and the performances. As the guests took their seats to dig into the delectable three-course meal served on bespoke plates inspired by the designer’s collection, they were surrounded by gowns from Rami Al Ali’s SS19 couture collection suspended on opulent chandeliers. Later, the guests were entertained with a contemporary performance by dancers from the Sima Dance Company dressed in Rami Al Ali creations.
Read Next: Mohamed Hadid Spoke About His Vogue Man Arabia Cover Line at Harvard
