The World by Nakheel offers massive USD 1 Million for 'Hole in One'

This is the second year running that Nakheel has offered this endorsement at the Challenge Match, which will once again attract 6 of the world's best golfers for the curtain raiser event on March 2. The players will have two chances to win the Hole-in-One Challenge.

The first opportunity to secure the prize money will be on the par-three second hole of the competition. If it is achieved on this hole a part of the prize will go to each player and the rest will be equally divided between 3 nominated local charities.

If none of the players hole in one at the second, they get another chance on the par-three eighth hole where the prize doubles.

'We are delighted that The World project is supporting the Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa's Challenge Match by offering such an impressive prize purse for the hole-in-one. Although nobody succeeded last year, it was close and not only would it be incredible if someone were to achieve it this year, it would also be a fantastic gesture for the local charities who will also benefit', said Gerhard Hardick, General Manager of Jebel Ali International Hotels.

'The World and Nakheel is enthusiastic about supporting world class events like the Desert Classic and the Challenge Match. We are also keen to show our support for the valuable charities in Dubai', said Wahid Attalla, Director of Operations for Nakheel.

'This opening Challenge Match always provides an informal and relaxed atmosphere for Dubai to watch some of the world's best golf players competing. Similarly, The World project will provide a relaxing atmosphere on some of the world's best real estate right on Dubai's doorstep', continued Attalla. 'The islands will provide an intriguing and one of a kind haven for investors looking for that very special exclusive locality. Some may even choose to build a golf course on their private island'.

The Challenge Match, curtain raiser to the Dubai Desert Classic is set to take place on March 2 at the Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa championship-standard nine-hole, par-36 course. The Challenge Match is a highly prestigious event with limited corporate hospitality opportunities.

The Resort Course at the Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa has previously hosted some of the world's highest ranking players including world number one Tiger Woods. Other famous players who have graced the fairways include the 2003 defending champions Ernie Els (world number 3) and Darren Clarke, as well as Mark O'Meara, Thomas Bjorn and Padraig Harrington who will return to the Resort Course for the 2004 Challenge Match.

The US$2 million Dubai Desert Classic, sponsored by Dubai Aluminium (DUBAL), will be held at the Emirates Golf Club's Majlis Course from March 4-7th March 2004.

Besides Dubai Aluminium (DUBAL) as the main sponsor of the Dubai Desert Classic, The World by Nakheel, CNN International, Arabian Ranches by Emaar and Samsung as co-sponsors, other sponsors include Emirates as official airline and Hole In One Sponsor; official caterer, hotel and challenge match sponsor Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa; official bank, National Bank of Dubai, official courtesy car BMW, and event newspaper Gulf News.

The World's sponsorship of this event is part of Nakheel's wider sponsorship strategy that incorporates supporting a variety of UAE events on a sporting, cultural and commercial level.