The Opera Ball in Dubai

After Vienna and New York, Dubai will be the third official venue to host this sumptuous event. Organised as a charity event, it will be held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum.

Officially endorsed by the Vienna Opera Ball, Austria, this unique event will bring the magic of Vienna and Austrian ancient tradition to the U.A.E. Guests will enjoy the authentic Viennese-style ball, having the same features as the original 'Wiener Opernball' at the Vienna State Opera: Austrian culinary delights, the festive entrance of the debutantes and their partners and even the original Opera Ball Orchestra, flown in just for this glittering and romantic evening.

The Dubai Opera Ball has the full support of the Austrian Chancellor, Dr. Wolfgang Schüssel, the Mayor and National Governor of Vienna, Dr. Michael Häupl, and Mrs. Dkfm. Elisabeth Gürtler, Head of the Vienna Opera Ball in Vienna. Key people from politics, business and arts from Austria are also involved in the event in Dubai as members of the Honorary Committee.

Guests will arrive in the strictly authentic tradition of tailcoats (ball gowns for ladies) or national dress and bisht.
The evening will unfold as follows:
19.00 Welcome Reception
20.00 Opera Ball Gala Dinner
21.30 Proceed to the Ballroom and Boxes
22.00 Opening Ceremony by Austrian Debutantes
Ballet dancers
Arias sung by Soprano Ira Lauren
22.30 Dance floor open to all
00.00 Quadrille followed by traditional Goulash soup

The occasion is an ideal opportunity for business networking, meeting Austrian companies and client entertaining. Guests will be able to mingle and enjoy the delights of an original Viennese Coffee House where traditional pastries and Sachertorte will prove almost irresistible to most, or the Vienna Heuriger serving typical Austrian delicacies. There will also be live modern dance music and a DJ playing contemporary dance music in the adjacent ballroom.

Background to the Vienna Opera Ball
In January 1935, the first ball to be known as the Vienna Opera Ball was celebrated at the Opera House in Vienna. It surpassed anything the house had seen before. Despite a hiatus during the Second World War, the tradition resumed in 1956 and once again captivated international society. The very words, 'Vienna Opera Ball' conjure an image of one of the most glittering and romantic events on the international society calendar. Kings, statesmen, politicians, industrialists and countless famous artists have already fulfilled their dreams of taking part in this unique event: The Duchess of York, and actresses Sophia Loren and Minnie Driver to name just a few.

Under the patronage of the Austrian Federal President, it strictly follows tradition. The festive entrance of the young gentlemen with their debutantes into the splendidly decorated ballroom, the strains of the Polonaise, the opening ballet, the dance of young couples and finally the first waltz, when the elegant guests make their way to the dance floor, evoke a world of glamour which entrances audiences worldwide.

Support of the Austrian Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the Austrian Chamber of Commerce
'Austria is not only known for its industrial and trading wealth, which makes it one of the richest countries in Europe, but for its cultural heritage. The sources are found in the Austrian Habsburg-Empire, where a characteristic culture evolved through Vienna's melting pot of many Central European people. The interrelation of this culture culminated in raising famous composers like Mozart and Strauss who made Vienna the cultural capital of Europe. Their music is celebrated in worldwide renowned 'Vienna Balls', a lifestyle of the Austrians,' said Dr. Nikolaus Seiwald, Commercial Counsellor of the Austrian Embassy in the Austrian Trade Commission, in the U.A.E. 'The economic wealth behind our specific culture is enormous. I only can appreciate and strongly support bringing that part of our culture to our fans in this part of the world to enjoy a slice of our lifestyle.'

Key Members of the Honorary Committee
Iaon Hoalender Director of the Vienna State Opera
Dr Gerald Kriechbaum Austrian Ambassador
Dkfm. Elisabeth Gürtler Head of the Vienna Opera Ball in Vienna and owner of the world renowned Hotel Sacher - makers of the delicious Sachertorte