Quite a number of Hollywood stars come and visit Dubai each year, yet we simply can’t contain our excitement every time a celebrity comes along! Well, recently the emirate welcomed not just one, but three famous actresses… Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Hudson, and Zoe Saldana. Yay!
ALSO READ: Pierce Brosnan Spotted in Dubai While Filming “The Misfits”
Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism) has announced a new project, a short film called “A Story Takes Flight.” It features the three actresses as themselves, as they journey and discover the sights, sounds, and culture of Dubai.
Hollywood Actresses Star in Short Film About Dubai
A Story Takes Flight is filmed by Reed Morano, an award-winning director known for her “immersive, natural, and cinematic” style. Throughout the film, she is able to capture the essence of each actress as they embark on an exciting, immersive journey in Dubai.
“Inspired by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, and Ruler of Dubai’s aspirational leadership, the people of Dubai reflect the city’s underlying spirit, where the pursuit of excellence has no finish line,” stated Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing.
“A Story Takes Flight is unlike any other film in that it speaks to this defining character of our city,” he explained. “It is a story of each person’s discovery through their interaction with Dubai. Regardless of who you are or where you are from, your journey with us also has no finish line – and the paths to explore are endless.”
Sharing about her experience, Oscar award-winning actress Gwyneth Paltrow shared: “One of my favorite parts of traveling is to truly connect with a city, its people and the local culture. Dubai is special because it’s a melting pot. Both the ones born here, who are so proud of their heritage, and those who are recent transplants, bringing with them their own values and traditions, contribute to writing the future story of the city. My time in Dubai was beyond anything I expected and there’s still so much more to see.”
Likewise, Emmy award-winning actress Kate Hudson commented: “Honestly, I was so grateful for the hospitality I received. I spent a lot of time exploring the winding streets of Old Dubai. It’s incredible to find such a vibrant art and music community in the heart of such a modern, futuristic city – which is what most people think Dubai is. But really, the friendliness of the people is what made my visit amazing, and it’s why I’ll come back.”
Meanwhile, actress and entrepreneur Zoe Saldana also talked about her experience: “The variety Dubai gave me was perfect. I went from riding horses at sunrise to watching the sunset from 150 meters in the sky. I can’t wait to bring my boys here to continue the adventure.”
The short film was shot over eight days. With a crew of more than 30 nationalities, the film production itself is representative of the multicultural diversity of the emirate!
“As a city, we were thrilled to have the opportunity to host Gwyneth, Zoe and Kate, and work with such an incredible director, which Reed is,” Issam Kazim added. “Through the eyes of the actresses we see the values, connections, and experiences that are engrained in the fabric of Dubai. This is what we represent. We are proud to be a city home to over 200 nationalities and we welcome visitors to write the next chapter of their story here.”
For more information about the project, visit www.astorytakesflight.com. In the meantime, check out these video clips of the three actresses having the time of their lives in Dubai:
ALSO READ: Will Smith is in Dubai & Having the Time of His Life
Just by looking at these photos and videos, we are definitely excited to see the short film! And speaking of Hollywood, how would you like to win a trip there? Read more about UAE Exchange’s Tara Pinoy Idol Contest for the chance to win a FREE trip to Hollywood! Cool!