A distinct buzz hung over the lawns of the Abu Dhabi Golf Club as the first Grand Prix Ball got underway.
All eyes were on the red carpet as local media waited to see which of the advertised celebrities would put in an appearance. But while a few held up their end of the bargain and walked the red carpet to the outdoor venue, a number originally confirmed did not.
A distinct lack of conversation on the red carpet also became apparent with the equivalent of a drive-by shooting from Kimberly Stewart, Marisa Tomei and surprise guests Janet Jackson and Jeremy Irons who barely acknowledged the media.
However, Neve Campbell didn't disappoint and made up for the lack of chat from stars arriving before her. Beautiful in a locally-designed Ayesha Depala black number, Campbell joked with reporters about her need for speed.
"I think I have a heavy foot," she said with a genuine laugh when asked whether she drives fast or slow and with in the limits of the law.
"I caught a bit of the Porsche race, which was great, and I can't wait to see the F1 cars."
Jackson somehow escaped negative comments by looking shy, frail and almost scared. Fabulously dressed in a striking Alexander McQueen gown which hugged every inch of her perfect curves, Jackson spoke softly as reporters desperately tried to ask how she was enjoying Abu Dhabi.
But it was straight into the venue and seating on the top table next to Abu Dhabi royalty for Jackson.
In short
On the menu: Prawn and lobster starter; beef fillets with layered potato and vegetables on the side; chocolate cake.
Entertainment: UK jazz singer Peter Grant, followed by The Gipsy Kings.
The venue: The Abu Dhabi Golf Club. A 10-minute off-road experience was necessary to get to the ball, followed by a short hike across sand before guests could wipe the dust from their Jimmy Choos on the grass.
The highlight: The auction was by far the most entertaining part of the evening. Two lively men kept the giggles coming as they batted hilarious remarks among the bidders and the people sat nearby.
The lots: A classic car personalised by Andy Warhol went for Dh350,000. A state-of-the-art home theatre system, identical to the one the Beckhams have, fetched Dh125,000. An all-expenses trip to Virgin Galactic from Sir Richard Branson went for Dh220,000. A game of golf with Nick Faldo fetched Dh85,000.
All for Janet
Engulfed by her personal bodyguard, Janet Jackson looked frail as she walked the red carpet. Quietly saying she was wearing Alexander McQueen, it was clear the singer and sister of Michael was uncomfortable with the attention.
But rather than arrogantly waltzing past journalists, Jackson seemed to be reluctant to leave the carpet for fear of upsetting anyone.
Inside, she didn't disappoint as she donated a surprise lot for the auction of four front row tickets and a meet-and-greet for a date on her tour. The lot sold for Dh250,000 in aid of clean water charity fresh2o.
