QE2 to host exclusive New Year bash in Dubai

An exclusive and invitation only grand New Year party will be held at the iconic Queen Elizabeth 2 (QE2), one of the most elegant vessels ever built, in her new home Dubai.

This is the first time she has been opened to the public for such an event, said a press statement by Dubai World – the owner of QE2.

The QE2 was bought for £50 million by Nakheel – a subsidiary of conglomerate Dubai World.

"For a limited number of guests, the QE2 black tie event is being designed as one of the most exclusive New Year celebrations in the world. However, a limited number of exclusive tickets will go on sale this week to the general public. A percentage of proceeds from ticket sales will be passed on to a local charity," said the press statement.

In a query to Emirates 24l7, a Dubai World spokeperson said around 1,000 foreign and local dignitaries, VIPs and royals will attend the New Year bash.

From gourmet food, captivating entertainers, magnificent laser and firework displays, an exceptional line up of international acts (including The Gypsies, Drury Lane, and many more), to royals, dignitaries, celebrities and VIPs, the event aims to treat guests to a unique, luxurious experience and the most stylish way to ring in the New Year of 2012.

Leili Gerami, spokesperson for Queen Elizabeth 2, said: “In the year in which the UAE celebrates turning 40, the QE2 also enters her 40s with a new lease of life in Dubai as a fabulous venue for a glittering start to 2012.”

Queen Elizabeth 2, often referred to simply as the QE2, was launched in 1969, and ran the transatlantic service from her home port of Southampton, UK, to New York, USA, breaking many records, including that of the longest serving flagship in the Cunard Fleet.  Countless members of Royal families, aristocracy, politicians, stars, musicians and celebrities from around the globe have featured on her passenger list.  Following her retirement from service in 2008, she made a final ocean journey to her new home in Dubai.

However, the ultra-luxury ship will remain anchored during the party, the spokesperson said, adding that refurbishment of QE2 will not be complete ahead of New Year bash.

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