ASIAN GOLF INDUSTRY FEDERATION

Troon-Managed Course Opens in Middle East

Troon Golf's Mark Chapleski with the Ruler of Ajman, UAE Supreme Council Member HH Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nou.

Troon Golf’s Mark Chapleski with the Ruler of Ajman, UAE Supreme Council Member HH Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nou.


Dubai, United Arab Emirates: Golfers from around the world descended on the Al Zorah Golf Club as the Middle East’s newest championship course – and the first in the United Arab Emirates for over six years – was declared open for play.
Exactly two years to the day since construction started on the spectacular piece of land in Ajman, the par-72 Nicklaus Design was officially opened by His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Ruler of Ajman, as golfers and high-profile government officials watched on.
Those participating in a special opening event were the very first to play the final layout at the course that is managed by Troon Golf, an Executive Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.
Set among a naturally-preserved environment of native sandy areas, lakes and some one million square metres of mangroves just 25 minutes from Dubai International Airport, Al Zorah opened its doors in style after months of high-profile media previews.
Incorporating 10 par-fours, four par-fives and four par-threes, the course has already exposed golfers to the unique tidal system that changes the proposition of several holes depending on whether they’re played in the morning or afternoon. Two lakes also feature, including one that plays a prominent part at the standout par-three, 15th hole.
“Over the last two years, a tremendous amount of hard work has gone into ensuring Al Zorah Golf Club is the stunning layout that it is today,” said Philip Henderson, the club’s General Manager.
“We’d like to thank Troon Golf for its exceptional management support throughout, as well as Nicklaus Design for the incredible job they’ve done in creating a world-class course layout, whilst maintaining the natural environment. Solidere International has also been instrumental in the on-going development of properties at Al Zorah.
“During the construction phase we had more than 300 people working on the course and all have played a part in making Al Zorah Golf Club completely pristine and ready for action,” he added. “Outwith the native sandy areas, we used 300,000 cubic metres of sand, while there are also over 1.5 kilometres of boardwalks to cope with the incoming tides, so that gives an idea of the scale of work undertaken to open the course.”
Bruce Glasco, Chief Operating Officer, Managing Director, Troon International Division, said: “We’re delighted to have played a part in the world-class proposition at Al Zorah Golf Club, and the final product is even better than originally expected.
Al Zorah Golf Club

Al Zorah Golf Club


“Now the course is open for business, we look forward to providing the level of service that this incredible venue deserves and hope it continues to help earn plaudits of golfers from all corners of the globe.”
In addition to the golf course, those attending the opening event at Al Zorah were welcomed by the The Pavilion clubhouse, which will be replaced by an even more impressive clubhouse in 2017. By the end of next year, golfers will be able to use the first of four marinas planned, as well as the five-star Oberoi Al Zorah Beach Resort.
Imad Dana, CEO, Al Zorah Development Company, said: “The Government of Ajman’s support to Al Zorah has been crucial to the progress of the project and we are truly grateful for it. The spectacular golf course will add a sense of serenity for Al Zorah’s residents and visitors. HH Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi’s visit emphasises the importance of this destination which will eventually transform Ajman into a lifestyle and business destination for those who seek the finest in life.”
Significantly, the Al Zorah Golf Club site has been designated a Free Hold Zone by the Government of Ajman, meaning the land is not only legal to build on, but also to live on, too. Constructed in conjunction with real estate developer and property manager Solidere International, there are several Al Zorah Golf Villas as part of an initial development.
 

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