A new destination management company launched by Dubai Golf aims to reinforce the emirate's place as an exciting golf destination with first class facilities and services.
Dubai Golf Holidays + Events specialises in inbound and outbound golfing holidays and aims to service the growing needs of the golf travel industry worldwide, says its general manager Michelle Chedotal. With a central reservations system, the new company will take bookings at eight golf courses in the UAE including the Majlis and Wadi courses at the Emirates Golf Club, Dubai Creek Golf and Yatch Club, Nad Al Sheba Golf Course, Montgomerie Dubai, Abu Dhabi Golf Club by Sheraton, and the Jebel Ali Hotel & Golf Resort. The new company is a one-stop shop for travel and tour operators wishing to offer golfing holidays to Dubai. It will take care of all golfing requests, and arrange tee times for clients on each of the courses in the country taking into account handicaps and individual requirements. "We are totally dedicated to arranging tailor-made golf leisure packages for individuals and groups coming from overseas," said Chedotal. On the outbound front, Dubai Golf Holidays + Events will offer Dubai-based golfers holidays abroad in countries such as Morocco, Thailand, South Africa, Scotland, Portugal, Malaysia and beyond. "Golfers worldwide are wealthy and they travel regularly for both business and pleasure," said Chedotal. "With over 80 per cent of the world's 50 million golfers living in countries served or soon to be served by Emirates Airlines, there was certainly a need in the industry." The launch of the division by Dubai Golf, the marketing arm of Emirates Golf Club and the Dubai Creek Golf and Yatch Club, highlights the emirate's position as one of the fastest growing golfing destinations. Late last year, the emirate was awarded the accolade of "Emerging Golf Destination of the Year 2001" by IAGTO (International Association of Golf Tour Operators) at an award ceremony in South Africa, further enhancing its image. "The UAE offers a wide range of golf courses which appeal to all levels and disciplines. All golf courses are open to public and have been built to promote tourism," said Dubai Golf corporate communications manager Emma Codd. "Long term vision from this part of the world set visitors to Dubai to cross the six million mark by 2010, generating around 23 million guest nights, and with these figures in mind, golf tourism will be playing an increasing part in luring guests to the Gulf and specifically Dubai." On next year's calendar, The 2003 Dubai Desert Classic is certain to be one of the most exciting sport events of the year in the Middle East.