Golf In Dubai Goes Global

Falcon Golf chairman Peter Dawson on why the ‘Golf in Dubai’ global golf tourism push is so compelling for those at home and abroad.

What distinguishes Dubai as a golf destination?

Home to 11 of the finest courses on the planet and with a subtropical climate, year round blue skies and sunshine, Dubai is perfect for a golf holiday. Not only that, visitors can play courses designed by greats such as Thomas Bjorn, Ernie Els, Sir Nick Faldo, Colin Montgomerie and Greg Norman, and enjoy hospitality and practice facilities that are second to none.

For many golf fans, though, the idea of teeing up at the courses that they have seen on TV is the biggest draw. As the host of three professional tournaments, Dubai has a rich history as a stage for the world’s greatest players to shine. Visitors have easy access to the courses that have seen famous victories for Seve Ballesteros, Ernie Els, Tiger Woods, Rory McIIroy and Sergio Garcia.

The development of the professional game also gave Dubai the ability to tell its story to the world. Over time, amazing moments of sporting brilliance have etched Dubai in the minds of golf fans all over the world.

Dubai is described as an ‘extraordinary’ golf destination. What best illustrates this in your eyes?

It is the combination of having a vision that pushes the boundaries and then realising it. This is what makes Dubai truly extraordinary.

It is hard to conceive how far Dubai has come in such a short period of time, and I think it is only really apparent when you arrive here and experience the city first-hand. The clearest illustration for me is when you see early photos of locations that have since been transformed into world renowned landmarks.

I have also been impressed by the vibrancy of the city and the quality of lifestyle enjoyed by its residents. There is such positive energy and a ‘cando’ attitude.

Explain how Golf in Dubai will optimise how Dubai is perceived in the golf marketplace?