Dubai: Ernie Els’ signature design course, 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 to 21.
Promoted and organised by golf in DUBAi, it will be the first professional tour event ever to be held at the 18-hole, par-72 Dubai Sports City course.
“It will be an honour for The Els Club, and 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 Zarouni, 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 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 Ahmad Al Sharif, secretary general of Dubai Sports Council, added: “International sporting events are key components of Dubai’s Tourism ‘2020 vision’ to increase our inbound 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.”
Mohammad Juma Bu Amim, 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 Dubai Sports City may be playing host to its 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.
“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.
“Of particular significance will be the presence in the field of 23 leading players from the Mena Golf Tour, who will be excited at the prospect of competing with some of the big names on the Asian Tour — a great opportunity for them to break into the big league by being able to gain World Ranking Points for the first time in their careers.”