International Superstar Lionel Richie is Announced at the Headline Act of Atantis, the Palm's Legendary New Year's Eve Gala

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates – Atlantis, The Palm today announces that global music icon Lionel Richie will take centre stage at the entertainment destination’s unforgettable New Year’s Eve Under the Stars Gala. Guests can look forward to the ultimate set list of much-loved hits and fan favourites as Richie captivates with his artistry on the grand piano to deliver an unmissable performance in the lead-up to Atlantis, The Palm’s 2025 countdown. With this year’s theme titled ‘Broadway’, the 2024 New Year’s Eve Gala dinner promises to deliver an extraordinary experience with non-stop, first-class entertainment.

International superstar Lionel Richie boasts a discography of albums and singles that is second to none. With more than 125 million albums sold worldwide, an Oscar®, Golden Globe®, and four Grammy Awards®*, Richie has been honoured with distinctions including 2016 MusicCares Person of the Year, and the 2017 Kennedy Center Honors. In March 2018, Richie cemented his iconic legacy as he imprinted his hand and footprints at Hollywood’s storied TCL Chinese Theatre. In 2022, he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, received the 2022 American Music Awards Icon Award and also received the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song by the Library of Congress. 

In September 2023, Richie concluded the first run of his acclaimed sold out 20-city “Sing a Song All Night Long” arena tour featuring special guests—one of the best-selling bands of all time—Earth, Wind & Fire. The tour continued in 2024 with 13 more dates across the US. Also in 2024, Richie continues his longtime residency, now at the Wynn Encore Theater, in “Lionel Richie: King of Hearts.” Richie has served as a judge on ABC’s “American Idol,” for the past seven seasons, and has recently been renewed for its 8th season. Most recently, Richie debuted and served as co-producer on the documentary The Greatest Night in Pop, which premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival to critical acclaim. The Greatest Night in Pop debuted at the top of the English Films List on Netflix in its first week of release with 11.9 million views and has recently been nominated for three Primetime Emmys.

Celebrated for his soulful voice and magnetic stage presence, Richie will perform timeless classics including "Hello", "All Night Long (All Night)," "Easy," and “Brick House”. This exclusive show, coupled with Dubai’s most stunning fireworks display, spanning from Atlantis, The Palm to the world’s most ultra-luxury experiential resort, Atlantis The Royal, promises a night to remember.

Kym Barter, General Manager and Senior Vice President of Atlantis, The Palm said, “A true world-class entertainer, we are incredibly excited to welcome Lionel Richie as our headline act. As the leading entertainment destination in the region, our New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner guests have high expectations, and we aim to ensure that every experience is nothing but extraordinary. To meet growing demand, we've expanded our seating this year to include brand-new VIP Sky Suites, featuring enhanced amenities and award-winning dining options. We have no doubt that the countdown to 2025 will be another memorable experience for everyone.”

Renowned for being Dubai’s most glamourous celebration and black-tie affair, guests can expect a night infused with the magic of ‘Broadway’, complete with theatrical performances, dazzling costumes, and vibrant decor inspired by some of the world’s greatest shows. Set on a custom-built deck under the stars, overlooking Palm Island and the sparkling skyline, the legendary event will begin at 6:00pm with a selection of canapés, welcome drinks, and roaming entertainment. As guests move into the beautiful outdoor space, they will be greeted by a 30-piece live band along with free-flowing Champagne and unlimited premium alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, sure to keep the celebratory spirits high. Throughout the evening, guests will be able to savour a delicious buffet with something for everyone, ranging from lobster and caviar to sushi, complemented by live cooking stations and a magnificent selection of handcrafted desserts, cakes and petit fours.

This year, Atlantis, The Palm will also introduce 20 VIP Sky Suites at an elevated section of the venue, offering the ultimate experience with spectacular views. Guests will have access to a private butler, dining experiences from Nobu, La Mar by Gastón Acurio, estiatorio Milos and the one Michelin star Hakkasan, receive full access to the luxurious Gala buffet and enjoy a selection of premium beverages – think Dom Pérignon Rosé, Krug Brut and Ruinart Blanc de Blanc.

Meanwhile, little ones attending the celebration will be invited to a party of their own in the Asateer Tent. The celebration will feature an enormous slide, a bouncy castle, an outdoor cinema, games stalls, arts, and crafts and much more.

Gala Dinner Package 1

Gala Dinner Package 2

Guests can upgrade to the ‘Rouge Circle’ which offers private prime seating.

• Free for children below the age of 3

Gala Dinner Package 3

Guests can upgrade to the ‘Golden Circle’ which offers private prime seating in front of the stage, unlimited Premium Champagne, a caviar box with personalised truffle service, and upgraded premium wines and spirits.

Gala Dinner Package 4

Guests can upgrade to the VIP ‘Sky Suite’ with access to a private butler, catering from renowned dining brands including Nobu, Hakkasan, La Mar, estiatorio Milos, full access to the gala buffet and a choice of premium Champagne.

Join Atlantis, The Palm for a spectacular night of music, glamour, and celebration as Lionel Richie headlines the New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner on Tuesday, 31^st December 2024. Tickets are available to purchase from https://dubai.platinumlist.net/event-tickets/94320/new-years-eve-under-the-stars-gala-dinner. To book a VIP Sky Suite, guests can call +971 50 485 8805.