The Desert Course opens at Arabian Ranches

The 18-hole championship course forms the centrepiece of the golf and equestrian themed development and is the region's first truly desert course. It will be a star attraction for the residents of Arabian Ranches, golf enthusiasts and visitors to Dubai from all over the globe.

Commenting on the opening, Mr Mohamed Ali Alabbar, Chairman, EMAAR Properties, said: 'The Desert Course is one of only around 100 genuine desert golf courses around the globe and we are confident that it will be one of the best. Its development illustrates our commitment to providing world-class facilities, a standard that underlines all of EMAAR's real estate projects. Together with the Montgomerie, we are proud to offer the choice of two championship courses, both a stone's throw from the city of Dubai.'

The Desert Course provides one of the most testing courses for golfers. Measuring 7,691 yards from the black championship tees, there are a further four tee boxes catering to all levels of proficiency - gold for the better amateurs (measuring 7,092 yards), separate blue (6,531 yards) and white tees (5,853 yards) for societies and daily green fee players and the ladies for a distance of 5,226 yards.

Developed former Open Champion, Ian Baker-Finch, in association with Nicklaus Design, The Desert course has been developed to follow exiting dune patterns to enhance the natural beauty of the site.

Explaining the design concept, Mr Raimund Legnar, Director Sales & Marketing (golf), EMAAR Properties, said: 'The brief was to extend and elongate the course throughout the desert as much as possible. Fairways have been crafted to take into account the natural undulations of the desert and the design team exploited these contours to create a course of the highest quality. We are delighted how the course has turned out. We have been ale to enhance the natural beauty of the desert without disturbing the environment.'

The Desert Course is complemented by some of the finest facilities which will cater to the needs of all visitors while the 35,000 square foot Spanish style clubhouse is being developed.

The Golf Academy will house the golf reservation desk, men's and ladies changing and shower rooms, a fully equipped pro shop, two air-conditioned swing rooms (with automatic gates to open up to driving range for additional comfort level for students), a full restaurant and bar service (operated by Jebel Ali International), a driving range with short game practice/teaching area as well as a practice putting green.

'The Desert Course boasts levels of service and facilities that are usually associated with a members club. With our reputation for providing quality and choice, our customers will benefit from a truly great experience,' concluded Alabbar.