Egypt hosted the Grand Ball of Princes and Princesses for the first time outside Monaco’s borders on Saturday at the recently awarded Abdeen Palace, marking a new milestone for the country’s high-profile cultural and heritage events.
The gala, themed “Royalty on the Nile,” featured performances inspired by royal elegance and celebrated cultural exchange and timeless artistry.
The Grand Ball in Cairo was a fusion of grace, history, and opulence, adding to Egypt’s growing reputation as a site for high-profile cultural and heritage events.
Royal gatherings of the Grand Ball type are among the most exclusive events of the year, hosted in Monte Carlo under the patronage of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco.
Members of royal families, aristocrats, diplomats and cultural figures attended the event.
This year’s Grand Ball was relocated to the Abdeen Palace in Cairo, highlighting the contrast between Egypt’s ancient history and its modern capital’s sophistication.
The move was part of the concluding activities of the fifth edition of the Hope Givers Campaign, held under the auspices of Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities.
Abdeen Palace, a landmark of Egyptian architecture, served as the venue for the Grand Ball. Its ornate halls and historic setting underscored Egypt’s ability to combine authenticity with contemporary presentation.
The event was attended by several royals, diplomats, and cultural representatives, including Her Royal Highness Princess Béatrice of Bourbon-Two Sicilies, His Serene Highness Prince Joachim Murat, and representatives of the Prince’s Palace of Monaco.
Joining them were senior government officials from France and Europe, along with prominent cultural and public figures from Egypt and around the world.
Welcoming the event, Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Sherif Fathy expressed pride in Egypt’s ability to host a world-class royal celebration, saying it reflected the international community’s confidence in the country’s capacity to deliver sophisticated, culturally rich events.
“This event truly highlights Egypt’s unique blend of royal heritage and modern architectural achievements, reinforcing our role as a global stage for luxury cultural experiences,” said Ahmed Youssef, CEO of the Egyptian General Authority for Tourism Promotion.
The Grand Ball was part of the closing activities of the Hope Givers Campaign, a humanitarian initiative founded by Egyptian former professional tennis player Anwar Elkamony.
The campaign, held from Nov. 7 to 9, aimed to promote messages of empathy and solidarity through global initiatives.
Ticket prices ranged from €1,000 for Emerald access to €3,000 for VIP Ruby tables.