Getting into the swing of it

Sands Hotel, which is located in the UAE capital Abu Dhabi, teed off its latest promotion earlier this year in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Golf Club.

Under its Millennium Golfing Package, the hotel is hoping to win new guests, while helping promote the emirate as the new quality golfing destination in the Middle East.

''With the addition of lavish state-of-the-art facilities, Abu Dhabi Golf Club offers special packages to guests staying at the hotel,'' a spokesman said.

He continued: ''The two-night, three-day package is for $446 between Sunday and Wednesday and $25 supplement at weekends, which is inclusive of one days' green fees at the Garden Course and National Course.

''The five-night, six day package is for $979 and $38 weekend supplement, inclusive of two day's green fees at the Garden Course and National Course.

''Both packages include room on single occupancy, service and taxes, airport and golf club transport and daily buffet breakfast.''

In another development, the hotel has boosted its management team with two new appointments recently: Ugo Joubert joined as the food and beverage manager, while Hassan Raafat joined as the director of sales and marketing.

Sands Hotel, which was recently refurbished, claims to offer personalised five-star service and facilities at four-star prices.

Its 253 elegantly-appointed rooms and suites include an Amiri suite along with Club Sands - two executive floors with 60 rooms and suites, and a fully equipped executive club lounge.

The hotel has also opened two new restaurants recently - the Al Atlal Restaurant and the Imperial Chinese Restaurant, adding to its other outlets, the Cappuccino Royale, La Piazza, the Grill, Harvesters Pub, which features live entertainment, and the Chequers Wine Bar & Restaurant

Other leisure facilities at the hotel include a health club with sauna and Chinese massage, and beach club facilities.

The Al Bateen Banqueting and Conference suite features ultra efficient state-of-the-art amenities and caters for up to 140 guests.

Sands Hotel also caters to outside parties from 10 to 1,000 people.

Its beach facilities include free access to the Beach Club, with complementary shuttle services to the beach and back.