The magic of red carpet arrivals — flashbulbs popping, stars in dazzling gowns, fans cheering — is a central part of any film festival and MEIFF is no different. But if you had the chance to walk the celebrity gauntlet, who would you rather have on your arm? tabloid! asked the people of the host city who they would most like to hit the red carpet with.
Haitham Al Sous, 29, a Dubai resident for more than two years, took his time before giving his answer. After an attempt to take two ladies he eventually made a reluctant decision.
He said: "I just can't decide between Beyoncé and Shakira — surely I can just take both? I think Beyoncé would just snatch the edge and she'd be my date. If I could meet any other celebrities on the red carpet I would like to bump into George Bush — I think we'd have an interesting conversation.
"My favourite movie is 300 because I love the way it portrays a leader."
Mary-Anne Ignaszewski, 52, and her husband John, 50 (above), were visiting Abu Dhabi for the day with friends.
Mary-Anne said: "I guess as a woman I should wander up the red carpet with someone like George Clooney but actually, I think Oprah Winfrey would be great fun and we'd have a much better time!
"Although saying that, I also love James Bond and I'd take any of those guys."
Manal Al Sous, 30, from Lebanon, was visiting her brother Haitham, who lives in Dubai, and desperately tried to hide her blushing cheeks as she gave her response.
She said: "I would like to go with Bruce Willis. He would be the best company. I'd be torn between him and Arnold Schwarzenegger. My favourite movie is Die Hard so that explains a lot."
Nick Samaha, 47, (right) has lived in Abu Dhabi for six months and was possibly the only person to give a politically-correct answer.
"If I had to choose anyone to head to a glitzy night on the red carpet at a film premiere I would take my wife. I love the movies and I think it would be lots of fun."
Friends Desiree De Beer, 23, and Anri Meier, 22, (above) didn't waste any time when it came to their answers.
Anri said: "No contest — Orlando Bloom. Period."
Desiree said: "I think Bruce Willis because he's bald. I love Pearl Harbor and I think it will always be my favourite."
Ticket facts
Tickets for all screenings are complimentary but MUST be reserved in advanced either online at www.meiff.com, by calling the ticket line on 02-631 8461 or by visiting the main box office at the Emirates Palace Hotel.
Call them!
Emirates Palace: 02-6909000
Cinestar, Marina Mall: 02-6812310
Tourism Authority: 02-4440444
Ticket info line: 02-631-8461
• There are a limited number of seats at each event so people are advised to book early.
• Arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time to guarantee entry.
• When a film has begun, unoccupied seats will be released to standby guests.
• The main box office will be open from 10am-10pm.
