DESTINATION GUIDE
UAE ABU DHABI • DUBAI • AJMAN • RAS AL KHAIMAH
WWW.EXCLUSIVEGOLFANDTRAVEL.CO.UK
TRAVEL GUIDE U.A.E
A TASTE OF THE
HIGHLIFE
2
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
DESTINATION: UAE
Welcome to a land of superlatives: biggest, tallest, priciest – the UAE certainly doesn’t do things by halves. But while its soaring skyscrapers and mega malls are certainly hard to miss, there’s so much more to the Emirates than first meets the eye . . .
DESTINATION: UAE
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
3
SEVEN EMIRATES
ONE DESTINA
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are perfect for luxurious beach holidays and family holidays, and city trippers will delight in the burgeoning art and foodie scenes. Don’t overlook the other Emirates, either. For example, little-visited Sharjah is stuffed with museums (covering everything from Islamic calligraphy to classic cars) – while Ras Al Khaimah’s mountains, hiking routes and white¬knuckle adventures (including the world’s longest zip line) showcase the UAE’s striking natural beauty. 4
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
DESTINATION: UAE
TRAVEL GUIDE U.A.E
ATION
I
n the 1950s when the rest of the world was exploring space, the UAE was way behind. But today, its brilliantly lit up cities and roads leave most people awestruck. Not only has the country caught up with the rest of the world in a very short span of time, but it has also raced ahead of all competition. The UAE has succeeded in creating an enviable and inimitable lifestyle of leisure, luxury and culture for both its residents and visitors. From super yachts to traditional dhows, shopping malls to souks, Michelin–starred cuisines to Arab mezze, convertibles to camels – these amazing contrasts lend the country fascinating exoticism. Since its formation, the UAE has only gone from strength to strength. It is one of the fastest developing nations in the world. Culturally, the UAE is a vital focal point of the Middle East and wider region. Prominent, internationally acclaimed exhibitions are regularly held at Manarat Sa’adiyat. Outposts of the Louvre and Guggenheim will soon open their doors in the capital, Abu Dhabi. Furthermore, the UAE presents a strong and vivid repertoire of cultural fests each year: Abu Dhabi International Film Festival, Art
DESTINATION: UAE
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
5
TRAVEL GUIDE U.A.E
Season, Dubai International Film Festival, Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, Taste of Abu Dhabi, Dubai Food Festival, Sharjah Biennial, Ajman Shahinda Festival and Fujairah International Monodrama Festival to name just a few. These regularly draw in the world’s best talents to the city. Shopping in the UAE is a fabled experience. Think gold, designer labels, souvenirs, bargain hunting and electronics. Here visitors not only have the choice of goods but also the choice of ambience to buy them in: sophisticated malls or bustling traditional souks. For thrill seekers, the UAE is a paradise of many pursuits. From Ferrari World Abu Dhabi to iFly and Iceland, jet skiing, white water rafting and kayaking to dune bashing and skydiving, the options are unlimited. Whatever the budget and taste, the UAE has accommodation choices to suit every traveller. Emirates Palace Hotel, Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Hotels and Kempinski Resorts are renowned globally for their luxurious offerings. 6
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
But apart from these stellar addresses, each Emirate has made sure to provide stays that will cater to even the most modest traveler without compromising on service. Getting around the UAE is extremely convenient and economical, thanks to its well planned and world class infrastructure. Interactive maps, comprehensive bus routes, easily available taxis and simple car hire procedures make travel across the country absolutely hassle free. While each of the seven Emirates is a destination in itself, a true feel of the UAE can only be had when tourists visit all seven. Each Emirate lends its own colour to the national fabric: Abu Dhabi’s understated elegance, Dubai’s dynamism, Sharjah’s cultural ethos, Ajman’s quietude, Umm Al Quwain’s natural bounties, Ras Al Khaimah’s mountains and Fujairah’s raw rugged beauty. Make the most of nature and technology, shopping and sightseeing, cultural exchange and contemporary living in just one holiday! DESTINATION: UAE
GOLF
UAE The UAE golf scene sometimes gets lumped exclusively into the golf courses in and around Dubai. However, beyond the glitter of the most well known Emirate city awaits a diverse collection of six additional Emirates, with their own character culture and upcoming golf venues. DESTINATION: UAE
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
7
TRAVEL GUIDE U.A.E
G
olf in the UAE is gifted with a warm and humid climate, as well as rolling sand dunes, providing a designers dream when fused with a wealth of resources in the region to deliver first class golf experiences. This unique ecosystem has helped golf thrive in the UAE over the last 30 years. Golf courses in the UAE have also played a big part in urban development, namely Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with many golf courses built in housing complexes offering masterplanned communities to help expand the city into what was once desert land. All of the UAE courses are located within two hours of Dubai International Airport, that is centered in the middle of the country geographically. Heading northeast uncovers the up and coming golf Emirates of Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah, and
8
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
Umm al-Quwain. Heading southwest from Dubai airport on Sheikh Zayed Road, you drive through the southern suburbs of Dubai that features many of the most prominent emirates golf courses. If you continue your drive another 30 minutes southwest towards the second most notable golf Emirate of Abu Dhabi, another half dozen courses are situated amongst hundreds of islands that make up the UAE capital. Abu Dhabi has taken full advantage of the many kilometers of ocean front property to build a lasting golf legacy. Many of the golf courses in UAE are also situated amongst mangroves and desert terrain that world-famous golf course designers have purposely built around. When the sun goes down, the floodlights turn on offering golfers the ability to play many of the UAE golf courses until midnight and enjoy the
DESTINATION: UAE
other amenities on offer from fantastic food to world-class clubhouse facilities. Temperature ranges vary per season when you golf Emirates, averaging in the low 20’s during the winter months from December to February. You can expect shoulder season temperatures of around 30 degrees celsius that climbs to 40 degrees plus from June through September. Make sure you pack the sunscreen; the
DESTINATION: UAE
courses are all equipped with plenty of food and refreshment stands on and off the course to keep you healthy and fully hydrated in order to play your best. It’s hard to miss the allure of Dubai no matter where you’re visiting during a stay experiencing Emirates golf. For most people, Dubai is a must visit – with its futuristic cityscape of buildings touching the sky, palm-shaped islands, stadium-sized malls, indoor ski slopes, and opulent beach hotels.
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
9
TRAVEL GUIDE U.A.E
AMAZING
ABU DHABI A
bu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital, provides golfers with a plethora of options when it comes to excellent golf on championship courses. Whether this be a links course, a parkland course, or a floodlit course, there is something for every golfer to experience in Abu Dhabi.
10
Champions, as it hosts the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship presented by EGA. The tournament has been a mainstay in the calendar for 14 years and has recently been elevated to Rolex Series event status.
Regularly attracting the best players in the game at multiple events throughout the year, Abu Dhabi is now in the spotlight and is seeing great growth in the global golf marketplace as one of the up and coming golf destinations on the circuit.
Unlike many other events on the European circuit, it is able to attract a host of American talent including the likes of Tiger Woods, Dustin Johnson, Jordan Spieth and 2016 winner Rickie Fowler. All these players fight it out under the shadow of the iconic Falcon Clubhouse, creating an electric atmosphere for anyone watching.
For most golfers it is almost impossible to think of Abu Dhabi without thinking of Abu Dhabi Golf Club, The Home of
Abu Dhabi’s sister course, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, is also widely revered. Like Abu Dhabi Golf Club, it also managed by
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
DESTINATION: UAE
TRAVEL GUIDE U.A.E
Troon International and hosts a major golf event, the Fatima Bint Mubarak Ladies Open, on the Ladies European Tour, which welcomes fierce competition each year. The Fatma Bint Mubarak Ladies Open is at the forefront of growing golf in the UAE and as a result has seen a spike in ladies golf as a result of the quality of the event. Those wishing to experience something a little different can head over to Yas Links Abu Dhabi, the first true Links course in the region. Away from the courses, these venues offer guests and members the chance to enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner in fantastic all-year-round outside temperatures, either under the famous Falcon Clubhouse, or on the Hawksbill terrace surrounded by gazelles and the beauty of Saadiyat Island. So, you don’t even need to play golf to be welcomed to the clubs and enjoy what the facilities have to offer. As well as providing the perfect escape for golfers, Abu Dhabi is home to a wealth of other incredible attractions. Whilst the white sands and turquoise waters offer the perfect backdrop for relaxation, they also form part of Abu Dhabi’s outdoor playground. Whether it’s wake-boarding, kayaking or cruising on a luxury yacht, the emirate waters have something for everyone. In addition to this perfect beach holiday you can also sample numerous desert experiences. The intriguing mix of old and new, brought about through the merging of DESTINATION: UAE
local heritage and international influences, means visitors can enjoy a walk around the Louvre Abu Dhabi as well as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The same international mix can be experienced in the culinary side of the city, with numerous restaurants offering great flavours in incredible settings. Whilst Yas Island provides entertainment for all ages; with Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas World Abu Dhabi and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, the Yas Marina Circuit experience and shopping at Yas Mall, also popular attractions. In terms of accommodation, there are five exceptional 5* beach hotels on Saadiyat. The Westin Abu Dhabi Golf & Spa Resort is also highly regarded, where every single room overlooks the golf course. Likewise, it houses an array of leisure, spa and sports facilities, as well as bars and restaurants, that are of such quality you may, despite the other attractions in Abu Dhabi, not want to leave the resort to enjoy. www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
11
CLIVE AGRAN The most gifted golf writer either side of the Urals in his words
Abu Dhabi’s first golf club Al Ghazal
FROM SMALL SEEDS GROW Clive ‘Silky Swing’ Agran rather immodestly describes himself as ‘the most gifted golf writer either side of the Urals’. His sports writing career began in 1989 when he joined Eurosport. His immensely popular ‘Single Figures or Bust’ series in Golf Monthly both reduced his handicap and raised his profile. 12
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
G
olf in Abu Dhabi is a comparatively recent phenomenon. Indeed, the place itself has only risen out of the desert in the last quarter century or so as huge oil revenues have financed spectacular construction and all manner of remarkable development. The benign tax regime and appealing lifestyle has attracted a great many overseas workers, especially from Britain. And it was the Brits who initially prompted the construction of the DESTINATION: UAE
The magnificent Abu Dhabi Golf Club golf courses. The very first was the Al Ghazal Golf Club, which is just a few hundred yards from the main airport and is quite fascinating. Doubtless disliked by greenkeepers, fertiliser salesmen and mower manufacturers, it is testimony to man’s ingenuity and a triumph of golf over adversity. In every respect bar a couple, Al Ghazal is just like every other golf course around the world. The only significant differences are that the fairways are yellow and the greens are brown. It’s a sand course originally created by crazed Brits desperate to wield a club again. Many great golfers have walked down its sandy fairways including, appropriately enough, Sandy Lyle. All will have enjoyed the novel experience of teeing the ball up on a soft sand strip sandwiched between two paved surfaces upon which you stand; one side for right-handers, the other for lefties. A handy trowel and broom by each tee box enables players to smooth the strip back for the next group. Assuming you land on the fairway (indicated by green posts), you lift your ball and place it on a square of plastic turf. If, however, you miss the fairway, then you play the ball as it lies. Here the greens are ‘browns’. Composed of a mix of oil and sand, they are fiendishly contoured but putt remarkably true. Spikes should not be worn but even smooth soled shoes leave footprints. A friendly fellow armed with a DESTINATION: UAE
broom followed our fourball, smoothed things over for us and was well worth the modest tip we gave him.
Tee box at Al Ghazal For a more conventional golfing experience, the Abu Dhabi Golf Club is strongly recommended. This is where the Abu Dhabi Golf Championship has been held every year since the inaugural tournament in 2006. Played in the middle of January, it is the first really big event of the year, offers a huge prize fund and always attracts a world-class field. Rory McIlroy invariably plays and both Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and other topr world players have thought it worthwhile to fly take part. The course always earns huge praise from the players and it’s not hard to see why as it’s both a fair test and magnificently well maintained. With the ground banked up on both sides of most fairways, it has the distinct feel of a stadium course, which is great for spectators. It’s also good for golfers as it provides clear contouring and definition on what would otherwise be comparatively. Eminently walkable when it’s not too hot, it has other attractive features including pretty flowerbeds and impressive palm trees, which add to the considerable visual appeal. There’s water on every hole… to drink that is! www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
13
CLIVE AGRAN ABU DHABI
There’s also a liberal sprinkling of lakes and ponds. From quite a few holes you catch sight of the stunning clubhouse. Shaped like a falcon with its wings spread out, it really is very impressive. And it is every bit as attractive on the inside, being light, airy and blissfully cool. One great course does not a destination make. And Abu Dhabi would not have become as popular with golfers as it has without the addition of two really outstanding courses. Although purists might quibble it is not a genuine links, nevertheless Yas Links is such a truly stunning course that so closely resembles the real thing that it really hardly matters whether the humps and hollows are man-made or not. Designed by the rightly-acclaimed Kyle Phillips, it runs alongside the Arabian Gulf on the western shore of Yas Island. Sensuously shaped from the sand, it has all the glorious links’ features one would hope to find and if it were not so warm and sunny, you could
almost imagine you were in Scotland! Close to the world-famous racetrack and a rich assortment of top quality hotels, it is ideally situated and frequently comes out on top when experts compile a list of the very best Middle Eastern courses. Another prime candidate for that enviable slot is the addition to Abu Dhabi’s quality courses, Saadiyat Beach. Designed by the great Gary Player, it too makes the most of its stunning location right on the Arabian Gulf and is wonderfully easy on the eye. Extremely long but with forward tee options, it has bunkers large enough to accommodate a camel train and greens that are very close to perfection. Apart from golf, there are plenty of other fun things to do in Abu Dhabi. Driving up and over the desert dunes is a popular excursion, frequently followed by a barbecue dinner under the stars with a camel ride, belly dancer and all that sort of thing. There are innumerable sandy beaches and truly outstanding hotels. Irrespec-
Saadiyat Beach Golf Club
14
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
DESTINATION: UAE
Yas Links Golf Club
Sensuously shaped from the sand, it has all the glorious links’ features one would hope to find and if it were not so warm and sunny, you could almost imagine you were in Scotland! DESTINATION: UAE
tive of whether or not you stay in it, the extraordinarily spectacular Emirates Hotel with its illuminated domes that regularly change colour and opulent interior with about four-and-a-half acres of marble per guest, is a must see. Apart from that, there are, I’m reliably informed, excellent shopping opportunities for those who actually enjoy shopping. When is the best time to go? In Abu Dhabi the height of the season is in inverse proportion to the temperature; the higher the temperature, the lower the season. So the sweltering months of May to September are understandably the least popular whereas what might laughingly be called the ‘winter’ months from October to April are just about perfect for golf. Don’t be tempted by the reduced summertime green fees as playing in temperatures high enough to fry an egg on the blade of your pitching wedge is rather unappealing.
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
15
UAE PLAYLIST 16
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
YOUR GUIDE TO THE BEST GOLF IN THE UAE
DESTINATION: UAE
DESTINATION: UAE
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
17
THE PLAYLIST: ABU DHABI
Abu Dhabi Golf Club An oasis of tranquility and beauty carved out of the desert, just 10 minutes from Abu Dhabi International Airport, the Abu Dhabi Golf Club boasts world-class golfing facilities, a striking clubhouse with three floors including restaurants, and an extensive Health Club. The course features undulating terrain meandering through
Par: 72
18
Holes: 18 (+9) Yards: 7,600
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
pockets of palms and ornamental shrubs and trees, flawless fairways, incredible greenery and seven salt-water lakes are part of two international golf courses. Extensive practice facilities include one 18-hole putting green, chipping greens, practice bunkers, and a 350-meter driving range.
Opened: 2000 Course Designer: Peter Harradine
DESTINATION: UAE
Saadiyat Beach Golf Designed by golfing legend Gary Player, Saadiyat Beach Golf Club is the Arabian Gulf’s first beach front course.
surrounding natural environment and in compliance with strict environmental guidelines.
The course provides a breathtaking variety of golf experiences with every hole having its own unique character.
The course allows golfers to experience the unique addition of local wildlife of the area, including strolling mountain gazelles, dolphins and the protected hawksbill turtles.
Saadiyat Beach Golf Club has been designed with sensitivity to the
Par: 72
Holes: 18
DESTINATION: UAE
Yards: 7,806
Opened: 2010 Course Designer: Gary Player Design
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
19
THE PLAYLIST: ABU DHABI
Yas Links Golf Club At Yas Links Abu Dhabi we have combined these two qualities with some of the finest facilities in the region to produce a truly remarkable club. And that’s what we are, a club, the latest in the long and distinguished history of Links golf, but the first true Links course in the region. Par: 72
20
Holes: 18
Yards: 7,414
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
The par 72 Yas Links Golf course has been designed by Kyle Phillips to test those that love the game, enthrall those fascinated by it, and entice those new to it. This is a course that demands respect, and only then will offer something for everyone.
Opened: 2010 Course Designer: Kyle Phillips
DESTINATION: UAE
DESTINATION: UAE
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
21
THE PLAYLIST: DUBAI
Emirates Golf Club, The Majlis Course The flagship course at Emirates Golf Club, The Majlis championship course is a challenging par 72, 7,301-yard layout. Designed by Florida-based course architect Karl Litten, the original 18 holes were built in and around the dunes of a beautiful site on the edge of the city of Dubai, donated by His Highness General Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, on whose
Par: 71
22
Holes: 18
Yards: 7,185
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
instructions the desert flora was maintained in its natural state. The Majlis course has developed a worthy reputation worldwide as a testing layout for even the best golfers. The course features hundreds of indigenous species of flora and fauna, beautifully complemented by meandering fairways and seven fresh and saltwater lakes.
Opened: 1998 Course Designer: Karl Litten
DESTINATION: UAE
The Address Montgomerie
Par: 72
Designed by Colin Montgomerie in association with Desmond Muirhead. The course covers 265 acres which consist of 123 acres of turf, 49 acres of man-made lakes (a total of 14 lakes), 93 acres of landscaped gardens and is scattered with 81 large bunkers.
the 1st October in 2002. The Address Montgomerie Dubai provides the player with undulating “links land� style fairways with generous landing areas which challenge and intrigue all levels of player.
The 18 hole, 7,446 Yard, Championship golf course and academy was officially opened on
Although large in size, the greens can be very misleading, especially as they are consistently rolling above 9.5 feet.
Holes: 18
Yards: 7,446
Opened: 2002 Course Designer: Colin Montgomerie
Dubai Creek The par 71 course at Dubai Creek that measures 6,967 yards is a memorable journey from the first tee to the 18th green. The superbly manicured fairways are undulating, demarcated by mounds, date and palm trees, and most other times by water. Apart from the Creek, which comes into play on at least four holes, several artificial lakes add to the beauty and difficulty of various other holes.
Par: 71
Holes: 18
DESTINATION: UAE
Yards: 6,967
Opened: 1993 Course Designer: European Golf Design
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
23
THE PLAYLIST: DUBAI
Jumeirah Golf Estates Earth Course
Jumeirah Golf Estates is a worldclass residential golf destination offering luxury homes and leisure facilities amidst two internationallyacclaimed championship golf courses, creating an unmatched lifestyle experience in the heart of new Dubai. Set across 1,119 hectares of lush green landscape, the development is an unrivaled destination offering attractive investment opportunities and world-class amenities. With 700 families and more than 1,835 homes, Jumeirah Golf Estates currently comprises of 16 unique communities, which overlook two of the world’s finest golf courses, Earth and Fire. Each individually designed villa, apartment and townhouse is more than a residence; it is an ideal home in its own right. As host of the annual DP World Tour Championship until 2020 and home to the Middle East’s only European Tour Performance Institute, Jumeirah Golf Estates rivals the best golfing destinations in the world.
Par: 72 24
Holes: 18
Yards: 7,480
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
Opened: 2010 Course Designer: Greg Norman DESTINATION: UAE
Par: 72
Holes: 18
Yards: 7,706
Opened: 2009 Course Designer: Greg Norman
Jumeirah Golf Estates Fire Course
The Fire Golf Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates is situated in between Jumeirah village and the green community area of Dubai. The 18 hole, 7,480 Yard, Championship golf course was designed by Australian Golfer Greg Norman. The first Dubai World Championship was held on the sister Course the Earth and which is now called the DP World Tour Championship. The development is a semi private club open to members and visitors.
DESTINATION: UAE
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
25
THE PLAYLIST: DUBAI
Trump International Golf Club The course is built on over 500 acres of land which was previously untouched desert, a landscape which is extremely prominent in the course’s design. While featuring many aspects of the former barren desert, the course is one of the few like it to feature several water hazards, forcing golfers to consider every aspect of their game with severe punishment lurking. A strategic approach to the course is the best option, with natural vegetation and subtle canyons providing tough elevation changes on many holes. Before heading here, you might want to work on your shots from the sand as there are several
Par: 71 26
Holes: 18
Yards: 7,229
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
rather large fairway bunkers which are easily findable. Trump International Golf Club, is not only home to an outstanding modern golf course but also magnificent facilities. The 30,000 square foot clubhouse is the perfect base for golfers, featuring brilliant changing facilities, a fully equipped proshop and varied, professional dining options. Golfers can enjoy a workout in the state-ofthe-art fitness centre, a dip in the relaxing pool overlooking the 18th hole or practice their game on the driving range or putting and chipping area.
Opened: 2017 Course Designer: Gil Hanse
DESTINATION: UAE
The Els Club Dubai The Els Club Golf course is situated within the developing Dubai Sports City area in Dubai. The 18 hole, 7,538 Yard, Par 73, golf course was designed by Ernie Els and was officially opened in 2008. With four sets of tees allowing players a selection of differing lengths from which to play, The Els Club Dubai, is to set a new benchmark for golf in Dubai from March 2008. The course will offer players a challenging round accompanied by all the essential facilities that extend beyond the immaculate fairways and greens. The Els Club is set on undulating slopes of native desert vegetation, it is a links style layout combining traditional classic design. Par: 72
DESTINATION: UAE
Holes: 18
Yards: 7,538
Opened: 2008
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
27
THE PLAYLIST: AJMAN & RAS AL KHAIMAH
Al Zorah Golf Club, Ajman Par: 72
Holes: 18
Yards: 7,169
Opened: 2015 Course Designer: Jack Nicklaus
The golf course has been designed by Nicklaus Design, the company of legendary 18-time Major Champion Jack Nicklaus and includes an 18 hole championship layout. Set within a stunning natural environment, with flowing dunes and an in-land Mangrove area, the highly desirable location provides golfers with
a unique golf experience with water levels shifting with the tides throughout the day. The level of personalized service delivered will only add to the experience that the golf course alone will give you. A team of player butlers will be awaiting your arrival where they will ensure every detail of your day is explained.
Al Hamra, Ras al Khaimah The course at Al Hamra Golf Club takes many of its design features from traditional links style courses as it meanders around four inter-connected open water lagoons merging seamlessly with the water of the Arabian Gulf. Designed with five varying tee options on each hole, the Par 72 Championship course lends itself perfectly to all levels Par: 72 28
Holes: 18
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
Yards: 7,325
of golfers, providing the fledgling novice or the most accomplished of players with an enjoyable and interesting golfing challenge. Al Hamra Golf Club beckons golfers and visitors to sample its first-class facilities including the extensive driving range, short game area and floodlit nine hole Par 3 Course.
Opened: 2007 Course Designer: Peter Harradine DESTINATION: UAE
TRAVEL DEALS In association with Chaka Travel – Providing an expert service for 23 years
7 NIGHTS FROM
£1,850pp VIEW INFO
WALDORF ASTORIA, RAS AL KHAIMAH, UAE WITH 5 ROUNDS OF GOLF Stay at this luxurious 5 star hotel which is surrounded by desert, sea & features its own golf course... perfect for a golf holiday in Ras Al Khaimah Package Includes: Flights with Etihad from London (other airports and airlines available on request)
Airport transfers 7 nights at The Waldorf Astoria with daily breakfast 5 rounds of golf Golf transfers
www.chakatravel.com DESTINATION: UAE
Call our specialists 028 9023 2112 www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
29
www.chakatravel.com
Call our specialists 028 9023 2112
CROWNE PLAZA ABU DHABI WITH GOLF
7 NIGHTS
Enjoy a golf or leisure break in style at the Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island hotel, located in the UAE’s electrifying sports and entertainment hub.
FROM
Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island is next to Yas Links golf course and minutes’ walk to both Yas Marina Circuit, home of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and Ferrari World. You’re a 10-minute drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport, while the complimentary shuttle wings you to city-centre souks and shopping malls in 20 minutes.
£1,595pp
Package Includes: 7 nights B&B 4 rounds of golf: 2x Saadiyat Golf Club 1x Abu Dhabi Golf Club 1x Yas Links Golf Club Flights from UK Return private airport transfers VIEW INFO
JUMEIRAH AL NASEEM DUBAI GOLF HOLIDAY
7 NIGHTS FROM
£2,495pp Package Includes: 7 nights B&B 4 rounds of golf inc cart: Jumeirah Earth Course Trump International The Els Club Dubai Hills Golf Club Sunset Desert Safari Flights from UK Return airport transfers VIEW INFO
30
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
DESTINATION: UAE
www.chakatravel.com YAS HOTEL, ABU DHABI WITH GOLF 7 NIGHTS FROM £1,795pp Stay at the iconic Yas Hotel in, the host of the F1 Grand Prix Abu Dhabi. Flights from London with Etihad Private return transfers 7 nights B&B at the Yas Hotel Abu Dhabi 4 rounds of golf including transfers
VIEW INFO
RIXOS SAADIYAT ISLAND – ABU DHABI 7 NIGHTS FROM £1,995pp Flights from the UK 7 Nights – All Inclusive Private return airport transfers 4 Green fees with golf cart & range balls You will play at: Saadiyat Beach Golf Club (x2) Abu Dhabi Golf Club & Yas Links VIEW INFO
FAIRMONT – THE PALM GOLF HOLIDAY DUBAI 7 NIGHTS FROM £1,825pp Half board, flights, transfers
& 4 rounds of golf CAPE TOWN-WINELANDSFANCOURT Staying in a Deluxe Fairmont Room you can enjoy a complimentay half board upgrade at this fantastic 5* hotel
VIEW INFO
MADINAT JUMEIRAH MINA A’ SALAM GOLF HOLIDAY DUBAI
Flights with Emirates, private transfers, half board basis, 4 rounds of golf Mina A’ Salam, the gateway to the luxurious Jumeirah Madinat complex.
VIEW INFO
DESTINATION: UAE
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
31
www.chakatravel.com
Call our specialists 028 9023 2112
TOURNAMENTS & ESCORTED HOLIDAYS WITH
JAQUES GOUS I
f you enjoy travelling as part of a group then look no further than our escorted golf tours or our fun and sociable golf tournaments.
Many of our amateur golf tournaments include tuition and are ideal for single golfers, couples and groups of friends. Nongolfers are also welcome and we will make sure they have an equally good time! Here are a number of good reasons to go on one of our tours or join one of our tournaments.
Jacques Gous Chaka Travel’s PGA Professional
South African born Jacques moved to the UK in 2000 and since then has worked as a PGA Professional in England. Since his path crossed with Chaka Travel in 2013 he has not looked back, in his own words “The guys at Chaka Travel has made my dream come true. They made it possible for me to take groups of golfers to some of the most beautiful locations and whilst playing golf with them and improving their golf through professional tuition”. Obviously South Africa was his first country to visit with a group and since then he has added more countries with groups joining him to Turkey, Mauritius and Spain 32
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
Meet like-minded people and make lifelong friends Escorted golf holidays are suitable for everyone from solo travellers to couples, and because you’re joining a group of like-minded people with similar interests you’re very likely to make new friends and acquaintances. Benefit from having your own tour guide and improve your game Our guides are extremely knowledgeable about the areas where you’ll be staying, and will also be on hand to offer expert tuition and advice on improving your game during your stay. This means you’ll get a highly enjoyable social and cultural experience combined,
really providing the best of everything in a holiday whether you’re a golfer or not. Play stunning courses and visit exotic locations Our escorted group holidays take place in some of the most beautiful and intoxicating destinations in the world, so this could be the ideal opportunity to play some courses on your bucket list. Total flexibility Many people incorrectly assume that joining an escorted golf holiday means that their days and night are planned out in advance and that it takes more of a ‘school trip’ feel than a relaxing and luxurious holiday. This really couldn’t be further from the truth. DESTINATION: UAE
www.chakatravel.com
At Chaka Travel we pride ourselves on our open and friendly way of doing business, and we find that this attracts clients who share our values to create a group of people who want to travel, enjoy good food and wine and play on some of the best golf courses around the world. Sound like your kind of people? We thought so. Why not call us today to find out more on 028 9023 2112 DESTINATION: UAE
www.exclusivegolfandtravel.co.uk
33