First-timers Westwood & Clarke gunning for Abu Dhabi glory

The pair join an elite international field featuring over a third of the world's top 25 players including defending champion Paul Casey (21), Australia's Adam Scott (7), Ireland's Padraig Harrington (8), Swedes Henrik Stenson (16) and Niclas Fasth (20), along with the English trio of Luke Donald (17), Ian Poulter (22) and Westwood himself, the current world number 23.

Westwood will be looking to kick-off the 2008 season in style after enduring a mixed season in 2007. His year highlight was a phenomenal seven-under par 65 on the final day of the British Masters at The Belfry - which at the time pushed the Englishman to the top of the Ryder Cup points table ahead of September's 37th Europe-America showdown at the USA's Valhalla Golf Club.

"All the Europeans are focussing on getting the points they need to make the 12 man Ryder team for Valhalla. I'm second behind Justin Rose at the moment, and hopefully a good performance in Abu Dhabi will all but secure my berth," said Westwood, who earlier this year became only the seventh player to win £10m on the European Tour.

"This will be my first time in Abu Dhabi, but a few of the boys from the Ryder team - including Paul, Henrik, Sergio Garcia and Monty - have told me fantastic things about not just the course and the facilities, but the warmth and hospitality of the people of Abu Dhabi.

"I've spoken to Darren about coming over, and obviously it would be great to be paired with him. One thing's for sure though, it will probably be a little warmer than Europe, so we'll be leaving the umbrellas at home!"

Clarke's 2006 Ryder Cup efforts galvanised a European team looking to continue a hot winning streak over their American adversaries, and, in the wake of the tragic death of his beloved wife, Heather, Clarke won the hearts and minds of golf fans on both sides of the Atlantic.

The Dungannon man's virtuoso K Club display saw him lift three points from three appearances, including an emotion-charged 3&2 singles victory over Zach Johnson 3&2 on the final day which put the European's 16-8 clear.

"I had a disappointing run following the 2006 Ryder Cup but my competitive game really started to come together in South Africa before the winter break and I'm looking forward to building on this in Abu Dhabi. I've worked hard over Christmas and a good start to the year will give me the drive and momentum I need as I bid to make the 2008 Ryder Cup team. The line up in Abu Dhabi is incredibly strong and I hope once again playing alongside some of the world's best players will spur me on to a good early result." said Clarke, who was the first player on the European Tour to shoot a round of 60 for a second time.

Tickets for the Championship are now on sale. Children under 18 will be admitted free when accompanied by an adult. Car parking will be free during the Championship.