Spectacular fireworks show launched from resort skybridge during grand opening reveal

Atlantis The Royal marked its global reveal on Palm Jumeirah from 20 to 22 January 2023. Looking Glass Events appointed Evolution to design and build a focused package of custom environments supporting the celebration.


The scope was not a single stage treatment. It involved three different expressions of the guest experience: a sculptural DJ setting, a recognisable branded photo moment and a premium VIP departure lounge for guests travelling to the main show.


Evolution approached the elements as a family of carefully finished interventions, each designed for a different audience behaviour while matching the sophistication expected of the hotel launch.

The Challenge


Every feature would be experienced at close range by high-profile guests. Engineering, finish quality and brand accuracy therefore needed to remain equally strong, particularly where the scenic treatment also performed a functional role.


The main DJ booth required a custom leaf shading structure, the 818 Tequila logo needed to work as an immediate photographic landmark, and the VIP Sailing Club had to balance comfort, circulation and a sense of occasion before guests transferred to the main programme.

VIP celebrity dinner setup featuring custom mirrored tables and luxury tableware

The Solution


Evolution engineered and fabricated the DJ booth as a complete scenic object, integrating the custom leaf canopy so shelter, silhouette and performance position read as one design.


A life-size 818 Tequila logo created a clear social and photographic focal point. Its scale and finish allowed the sponsor identity to register immediately without relying on a conventional branded wall.


The VIP Sailing Club was designed and furnished as a refined hospitality environment. Layout, furniture and branded detailing supported the transition from private guest arrival to onward transport for the show.


Production planning connected the three settings through one fabrication and installation programme, protecting consistency of finish even though each element served a different function.

Delivery Highlights


  • Grand Reveal programme delivered from 20 to 22 January 2023.
  • Custom main DJ booth with an engineered leaf shading structure.
  • Life-size 818 Tequila logo created as a photo opportunity.
  • Design and furnishing of the VIP Sailing Club.
  • Premium guest environment supporting transport to the main show.
  • Integrated scenic fabrication and installation across the launch settings.
Custom wayfinding signage pillars with brushed brass accents guidance across venue

Outcome


The three environments gave the reveal a sequence of memorable guest touchpoints rather than one repeated visual treatment. Music, sponsor engagement and VIP hospitality each had a setting designed around its purpose.


The scenic work supported the grandeur of the wider launch through precision and restraint, adding distinctive moments without competing with the hotel or main performance.

Project Ecosystem


Client:

Looking Glass Events


Evolution Events: Led client coordination, guest-environment planning, installation programming and delivery across the three launch settings.


Evolution Scenic: Designed, engineered and fabricated the DJ booth, leaf canopy, life-size sponsor logo and branded VIP environment.


Evolution Furniture: Provided and coordinated the confirmed furnishings for the VIP Sailing Club hospitality setting.