Abu Dhabi

GETTING THERE

Both British Airways (www.ba.com, 0870 8509850) and Etihad Airways (www.etihadairways.com, 0870 2417121) fly direct from Heathrow, with Etihad also flying from Manchester.

WHERE TO PLAY

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and is regarded as the world?s

richest city. The average fortune of every one of its 420,000 citizens is in the region of £9million.

This wealth is certainly reflected in the stunning array of new golf courses that are there to be enjoyed during the cold, wet winter months at home.

The Abu Dhabi Golf Club plays host to the European Tour?s Abu Dhabi Golf Championship, won by Paul Casey in 2007, and at 7,334 yards, the National Course is a spectacular layout. The falcon-shaped clubhouse will also make every player stop and marvel.

Meanwhile, the Garden Course is a delightful nine-hole layout that caters for players of all levels with its gentle beginning and consistent layout.

As you would expect there is a fine collection of modern courses on offer in Abu Dhabi, but perhaps the most dramatic and exciting venue is Al Ghazal Golf Club, home to the World Sand Golf Championship. In case you haven?t guessed it, the course is made entirely of sand, that?s right ? no grass! A throwback to the days before irrigation systems enabled green golf courses to be built in the desert. Al Ghazal is 6,487 yards in length and is a golfing experience that cannot be missed.

WHERE TO STAY

For an unforgettable experience, stay at Emirates Palace Hotel. This ultimate resort offers luxury and opulence along with its own private beach, pools, wellness facilities and restaurants offering a vast array of food from around the world.

OFF COURSE

There is plenty to do off the golf course in Abu Dhabi, including grabbing bargains at the Abu Dhabi Duty Free. Scuba diving is also a common pursuit amongst holidaymakers, while others prefer a more serene way of enjoying the crystal clear seas ? fishing.

CONTACTS BOOK

Abu Dhabi Golf Club

W: www.adgolfclub.com

Al Ghazal Golf Club

W: www.alghazalgolf.ae

Emirates Palace

W: www.emiratespalace.com

More Information

W: www.exploreabudhabi.ae