First phase of Equestrian and Polo Club completed with work on the second phase already in progress

The corporation revealed that the first Polo fields of the project will open in October 2006.

Arthur Fitzwilliam, Managing Director of Plantation Holdings stated that the execution of the project is proceeding according to plan. 'The first phase has been completed, and work is continuing on phase two of the project. The project on completion is expected to be one of the important attractions of Dubailand.'

He added, 'We are delighted to be part of the Dubailand project, as we at Plantation Holdings are completely convinced that Dubailand will be the next great thing that the tourism, leisure and entertainment world will see on a global basis and we very much wanted to be part of it.'

Fitzwilliam added, 'We are aware that Dubailand is looking for the very best. We promise that the facility, which we will create, will be a benchmark for the equestrian world. Dubai already has internationally acknowledged equestrian credentials. Horse training facilities are the envy of many and the Dubai World Cup, as well as being the world's richest horse race, is a major social event. We intend to complement and add to that reputation.'

The facility will be staffed with the best international instructors for all equestrian disciplines. The five Polo fields will enable the playing not only of high goal Polo, but will allow the simultaneous scheduling of beginner games. The Polo Academy will further encourage and develop the growth of the sport amongst the local population and provide enthusiasts from all over the world an opportunity to participate in the sport on the Arabian Peninsula.

The Polo & Equestrian club will house one of the world's largest equestrian facilities on luxuriously landscaped grounds, air-conditioned stabling for 800 horses, and world-class facilities for show jumping, dressage, cross-country, endurance, eventing and Polo along with recreational riding areas. To enable international visitors to fully appreciate the facilities at the complex, a five-star dedicated resort will also be built on the grounds. This will also include a spa which will introduce a unique concept in privacy and luxury.

The project developers have had a temporary stable on site with 34 horses since June of last year and work is underway on a second stable to house a further 50 horses coming from Argentina in the next two months. Construction of the permanent stable blocks should start next month.

To further enhance the riding pleasure of the members and their guests, the Plantation Equestrian and Polo Club will have two luxurious club houses, one for the equestrian and one for the Polo Community. These will house a variety of restaurants and shops for the whole family to enjoy.

Dubailand is attracting many local and foreign investors which reflects their faith in the upcoming projects, as they will put Dubai on the map of global tourism and will be a major attraction contributing towards boosting the numbers of visitors from all around the world.

Plantation Holdings has the expertise and experience in the construction and management of equestrian and other sports fields, which will allow sports players the opportunity to enjoy their game on fields of an international standard.

Construction work at different projects in Dubailand is witnessing rapid progress, hence alongside the Equestrian and Polo Club, the implementation of a series of other projects has been announced. This represents a focal point of Dubai's strategy to attract 15 million visitors by the year 2010.