Penelope Cruz Made a Surprise Appearance in Dubai to Announce Something Huge

It's been a while since she was last in the Emirate but on Thursday night Penelope Cruz made her much-anticipated return to Dubai. The 42-year-old actress was the surprise guest at a gala dinner at the Armani Hotel inside the Burj Khalifa as she revealed she was the face of Sama by Damas. Before guests got to watch glitzy fashion show featuring the brand's unique pieces (no two items are made the same) Penelope emerged on stage to speak to the 250 people in attendance.

Following an introduction from presenter, Shireen Mitwali, the mother of two children and wife to Javier Bardem told the crowd: "The last time I was here was a year and a half ago and I was hoping something would bring me back here soon. Two months later I got a call with the opportunity to be the image of the brand.

"I thought it was such an honor they wanted me to be the image of a brand that's so trusted, so classy and beautiful, so unique. It's been there since 1907 so I had absolutely no doubt. Every single piece I have seen has been mind-blowing. It's all one of a kind."

After her speech on stage, the Zoolander 2 actress sat down to enjoy a dinner of Quinoa Salad, Seared Seabass and Pistachio and Raspberry Sponge Delight.

It's a pretty big deal for Dubai-born Damas, who believe the announcement will make them better known on a worldwide scale.

The brand's CEO, Anan Fakhreddin, added: "We were seeking the best possible. She's extremely well-known globally. She's even more well-know in the region, everybody love Penelope. She [very] into fashion and design. She's a great advocate when it comes to volunteer work and charity. She was the natural choice for Damas.

"We are thrilled to be working with Penelope, an ambassador whose values and characteristics perfectly fit the heart of the brand. She is one of many celebrities we've tied up with but this is, by far, our most glamorous campaign. With this launch, and the collaboration, we are truly moving from a famous jewelry retailer in Dubai to conceivers of a famous jewelry brand from Dubai."