Some of the world’s tennis legends took to the courts in Abu Dhabi last week to entertain guests in an elite and quintessentially British event.

‘Tennis at The Palace’ was brought to the UAE capital by iconic British brand Fortnum & Mason and featured an elegant and stylish garden party with world-class sporting entertainment from the players. 

The inaugural edition was held from March 12 to 14 at the grounds of the Emirates Palace hotel, under the patronage of Sheikha Shaikha bint Mohammad bin Khalid Al Nahyan, a leading supporter and patron of tennis in the UAE.

Among the stars that entertained the guests were former Wimbledon champions Marion Bartoli, Pat Cash and Richard Krajicek; Czech legend Jana Novotna; Britain’s Tim Henman; and Morocco’s Younes El Aynaoui.

Fortnum’s served its world renowned classic afternoon tea to guests in the Royal Enclosure on all three days, the perfect complement to a day at the courts. 

The tea comprised of a classic cake stand layered with a fabulous selection of light finger sandwiches on the lowest tier, homemade scones, served with jam and clotted cream on the second, and cakes and pastries on the top tier accompanied by a pot of Royal Blend tea. 

A selection of renowned gifts were displayed in the Fortnum & Mason boutique, with its celebrated hampers showcasing the very finest in products. 

Fortnum’s hot air balloon, with its bespoke eau de nil and gold fabric and hand-woven F&M stamped basket enhanced the very British atmosphere.

“We are proud to be supporting the first edition of the Fortnum & Mason Tennis at The Palace event. It is an ideal fit for our brand and certainly portrays the essence of what we are about, whilst allowing us to share with guests our fabulous experiences and unique offerings. The event was memorable and the surroundings idyllic – I think guests really enjoyed spotting the Fortnum’s balloon too!” commented Fortnum & Mason CEO Ewan Venters. 


FORTNUM & MASON

Since its foundation in Piccadilly in 1707, Fortnum & Mason has been at the heart of London life, supplying the very finest goods and services. In 2013 Fortnum & Mason opened its second UK store in 308 years at London’s St. Pancras International Station, and in 2014, its first standalone store outside the UK in Dubai. 

Situated in the heart of Downtown Dubai, Fortnum & Mason offers a selection of the world’s finest teas, biscuits and renowned hampers, plus a range of hospitality offerings. The Tea Salon & Ice Cream Parlour welcome guests to enjoy all-day dining with unrivalled views of the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai fountains.