Ernie Els’ premier signature design golf course in the Middle East, The Els Club Dubai, will play host to the inaugural Dubai Open when the Asian Tour’s final event of 2014 makes its first trip to the city from December 18- 21.
Promoted and organised by golf in DUBAi, the first professional tour event ever to be held at The Els Club is a fitting tribute to a man who has been an international ambassador and huge supporter of the Asian Tour since the day it was established by their players in 2004.
Situated within the sprawling Dubai Sports City, the 18-hole, par-72 course combines links style golf with traditional 'classical era' design, reflecting the creative genius of a man who also owns a record three Omega Dubai Desert Classic titles.
"It will be an honour for The Els Club and, indeed, for Dubai Sports City as a whole to host such a prestigious event and I would like to congratulate golf in DUBAi on this welcome addition to the city's growing portfolio of world-class events,” said Khalid Al Zarooni, president of Dubai Sports City.
“There is a feeling of tremendous excitement at The Els Club as we welcome our first international tournament, the Dubai Open. We are looking forward to a long relationship with golf in DUBAi.
“We are extremely proud of our championship course, which has been in operation since January 2008 and is managed by Troon Golf, and to have this Asian Tour event really is something we are delighted about.
"I am confident that players and fans will be blown away with by the quality of the golf course and facilities at The Els Club. We can’t wait to showcase Els’ masterpiece to a global audience.”
Dr Ahmed Al Sharif, secretary-general of the Dubai Sports Council, also pledged his support to the new initiative by golf in DUBAi, saying: “International sporting events are key components of Dubai’s Tourism ‘2020 vision’ to increase our in-bound visitor numbers and showcase our quality infrastructure to the world.
“Every time a new major international event is held here, it not only raises Dubai’s profile, but also contributes significantly to the economic growth of our city. Golf is one of the fastest growing sports in the emirate and the addition of the Dubai Open is testament to the rising popularity of the city’s unique position as a diverse and much sought-after golfing destination.
Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice chairman and CEO of golf in DUBAi, said: “It seems just so appropriate that we will be visiting a world-class facility that exudes a culture of excellence and a brand name that appeals to all in the golfing fraternity.
“The Els Club at the Dubai Sports City may be playing host to their first professional tour tournament, but it’s not uncommon to see some of the world’s best players practicing there ahead of events such as the Omega Dubai Desert Classic.
“A first for Dubai and a first for The Els Club, the Dubai Open will be a tremendous boost for the Asian Tour and golf in our amazing city. These are exciting times for golf in Dubai and I look forward to welcoming the Asian Tour and fans to The Els Club.
