Dubai's autograph hunters, movie fans and star stalkers were treated to a chance to see their entertainment idols in person last month. Word spread quickly throughout Dubai that Bruce Willis, Sylvester Stallone, Cindy Crawford, Wesley Snipes, Amitabh Bachchan, Patrick Swayze and Tia Carrere were all staying at the Metropolitan Palace Hotel. In town for the opening of a new theme restaurant, the 'beautiful people' attracted a gang of die-hard fans who camped outside the Metropolitan Palace.
Although it proved harder for fans to get into the Metropolitan Palace than trying to negotiate entry to Carter's in the 'wrong' clothes, loyal fans managed to catch sight of their idols several times outside the hotel. The less eccentric of the bunch even stopped to chat. Patrick Swayze was by far the people's choice, posing for pictures and joking with his fans. The Metropolitan Palace Hotel, which also welcomed Jean Claude Van Damme in January, is fast establishing a reputation as Dubai's 'home to the stars'. The luxuriously appointed hotel, with its tight security and prime location, (Dubai International Airport is only five minutes away) means it is a base for many of the VIPs that visit Dubai. Rumour has it that Arnold Schwarzenegger will be visiting soon, so fans might want to head down to the Metropolitan Palace now to make sure they get a good spot. You never know who you might bump into!