Photo courtesy of Egyptian Ministry of Tourism.
Held annually under the patronage of His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco, the Grand Ball is among the world’s most exclusive royal events, bringing together members of royal families, nobility, diplomats and prominent cultural figures.
This year’s edition enjoyed a high-profile royal and diplomatic attendance, including Her Royal Highness Princess Béatrice of Bourbon-Two Sicilies, His Serene Highness Prince Joachim Murat, and official representatives of the Prince’s Palace of Monaco.
Hosting the event formed part of the closing activities of the fifth edition of the global Hope Givers campaign, held in Cairo from 7 to 9 November under the auspices of Egypt’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, represented by the Egyptian Tourism Promotion Authority (ETPA).
A ministry statement said the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization (NMEC) hosted the first of the closing events, while the campaign’s final ceremony will take place on 9 November at the New Capital Opera House.
Tourism and Antiquities Minister Sherif Fathy expressed pride in Egypt hosting the Grand Ball for the first time, describing it as a sign of international confidence in Egypt’s capacity to organize world-class cultural and heritage events.
He said the occasion showcases Egypt’s unique ability to combine royal authenticity with modern architectural sophistication, reaffirming its place as a destination for events that blend luxury and cultural refinement.
ETPA CEO Ahmed Youssef said the authority is committed to supporting exceptional, high-end events that enhance Egypt’s international image as a luxury destination.
He added that the Grand Ball offers a unique opportunity to promote Egypt as a country where history meets modernity, and that hosting a globally recognized ultra-luxury royal event affirms Egypt’s position as one of the world’s leading destinations for heritage and high culture.
The ETPA office at Cairo International Airport received the gala’s distinguished guests and facilitated their arrival, the statement added.
Earlier, the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization hosted the International Masterclass as part of the Hope Givers campaign, in cooperation with international organizations including the Better World Fund and Listen2Hearn, supporting humanitarian and global health initiatives.
Tickets for the ball ranged from 1,000 euros for Emerald access to 3,000 euros for VIP Ruby tables, underscoring the event’s luxury positioning.
First launched in Monaco in 1954 under the patronage of the late Prince Rainier III and Princess Grace Kelly, the Grand Ball has continued annually under Prince Albert II’s supervision and is considered one of Europe’s most prestigious royal galas.
The Hope Givers campaign was founded by Egyptian former professional tennis player Anwar Elkamony, whose recovery from a life-threatening illness inspired his global humanitarian work. Diagnosed with bone marrow failure in his twenties, Elkamony survived a seven-year ordeal, later returning to professional tennis before dedicating his life to promoting empathy, resilience, and humanitarian solidarity.
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