Mastercard Worldwide boost for Dubai desert classic

"World recognised brands such as MasterCard play an integral part in our continued drive to showcase the Emirates to a world audience," stated Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice-chairman and CEO of 'golf in DUBAi.'

"MasterCard complements our existing family of sponsors perfectly and will be welcomed with open arms."

MasterCard is a proud supporter of golf worldwide and maintains status as the official credit card of golf's governing bodies such as the PGA Tour and European PGA Tour as well as hosting prestigious tournaments around the globe including MasterCard Classic in Mexico (LPGA Tour), the Arnold Palmer Invitational Presented by MasterCard (US PGA Tour), the Senior Open Championship Presented by MasterCard (PGA European Seniors Tour).

For more information on MasterCard's extensive support of professional golf, and golf benefits for cardholders please visit www.mastercard.com/golf.

Denzel Lawson, General Manager, Middle East and Levant, MasterCard Worldwide, said: "Sponsorships are a critical component of an overall integrated marketing mix for MasterCard globally.

"By associating with and leveraging leading properties and events around the world, MasterCard is able to create business-building opportunities for its customer financial institutions as well as offer valuable benefits to its millions of cardholders around the globe.

"As Dubai continues to evolve as a leading golf haven in this region and beyond, we are delighted to collaborate with golf in DUBAi in order to bring cardholders closer to the game they love,"

Lawson added.

The 2009 Dubai Desert Classic, which takes place from January 26 to February 1, takes on added significance this year as it celebrates its 20th anniversary. And to mark the milestone, the organizers of the longest-running tournament in the region have invited all former champions, including Tiger Woods, to honour them for their contributions in raising the profile of the event.

'golf in DUBAi' is backed by Dubal (Dubai Aluminium) as the main partner and Emirates-NBD, MasterCard, Jumeirah Hotels, Emirates Airline, BMW, Jumeirah Golf Estates, Gulf News, Omega and CNN as partners in its drive to showcase the emirate's vibrant golfing scene to a worldwide audience.