Oh to be famous. They might complain about fame etc, but celebrities are a pampered bunch. At this year’s Dubai International Film Festival (Diff), it’s going to be no different for all the stars attending. The Lounge at the Madinat Arena is where they can go and pick from some of the coolest UAE and international brands, for free.
Katherine Raso, the co-founder and general manager of Global Communications Agency, the company in charge of putting together The Lounge, says this year is extra special.
“Not only do we have so many fantastic local brands representing Dubai and the UAE in addition to our old favourites from years past, but we have also expanded the lounge into a larger space. Diff is one of our favourite weeks and each year we look to change things up so we are always offering celebrities and guests a new experience.”
Here are all the gifts the stars will get, according to Raso:
Luxury handbags
“We have found over the years that while international brands are always a must for The Lounge, celebrities tend to be extra excited about the local products. We love offering guests a combination of familiar and unique gifts.
Some of the local brands we are thrilled to have on board include Native, locally crafted luxury leather handbags made from ethically sourced ostrich, crocodile and camel leather. Native has beautiful gifts for guests and offers bespoke custom-made items which will be presented by their chief designer.”
Jewellery and fashion
“O Jewellery is made by Abu Dhabi-born visual artist, Shamsa Al Omaira. Ayaso Boutique is back again with their beautiful kaftans and USH Boutique will be showcasing local fashion designers. And we also have the uber popular Caliente caps, who will be giving away their signature Dubai trucker hats.”
High-end honey (yes, there’s such a thing)
“We’ve got some of the world’s most expensive honey also in the lounge this year. Balqees is based in Dubai but sold all over the world and sources the purest and rawest forms of honey from Yemen. Elle Macpherson is a personal client and fan of Balqees.”
Chocolates
“Boutique Le Chocolat, the new luxury chocolate outlet is creating bespoke chocolate bars for special guests and displaying life-size chocolate sculptures from their store in City Walk Dubai.”
Cosmetics and Botox shots
“Big brands like Shiseido are back again this year with refreshing facials and luxury skincare products and we are taking beauty treatments to the next level with Shamma Medical Center offering Mesotherapy and Botox to VIP guests in their hotel rooms throughout the week. Gentlemen need not feel left out, however, because The Art of Shaving will be giving skin consultations and gift bags to our male guests and we even have Moresque fragrances featuring their line of modern Oriental perfumes for men and women.”
Luxury hotel stays
“Madinat Jumeirah, who graciously host us each year, are really pulling out the stops by providing VIPs seven nights in the brand new Jumeirah Al Naseem Resort, located next to the Burj Al Arab.”
Free drinks
“Not only do we gift celebs in The Lounge, we also provide a place for them to get away and spend some time before the red carpet events. This year we have a Bollywood meet-and-greet happening and we may have some very special guests stop by for a cocktail before the gala event. To help us create an inviting atmosphere, Mahiki is hosting the bar and offering tropical-themed refreshments.
For more about the lounge, go to www.facebook.com/VIPLoungeAE
