Ronaldo falls under Dubai's spell

Dubai: Manchester United and Portuguese soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo is in awe of Dubai after enjoying a five-day holiday in the emirate.

Ronaldo, 21, praised the emergence of Dubai as an ideal year-round business and leisure destination and was impressed by the various facilities in existence and the development taking place in the emirate.

The Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) organised a thrilling desert safari trip for Ronaldo in addition to a city tour. He was also shown a presentation on Dubai.

Hamad Bin Mejren, DTCM Manager Missions, who accompanied Ronaldo during the tour, noted that Dubai had become a popular destination for football players from around the world and that teams, especially from Europe, regularly conduct training camps or holidays in the city.

Also accompanying Ronaldo on the tour were Ahmad Sa'ad Al Shareef, Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council, and Mohammad Al Ka'abi, General Manager, Leaders Qualification Centre.

Mementos were presented to Ronaldo.

Ronaldo is considered to be one of the most promising talents in the modern game and is currently at the centre of a mega transfer battle with Real Madrid, who have said they are willing to lodge a £35 million bid for the winger before the end of the season.

But Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has slapped a 'not for sale' notice on his star.