The Dubai Open Trophy unveiled with an Arab heritage strongly in focus
Symbolising Arab heritage, a custom-designed DUBAi Open Trophy was unveiled on Tuesday. A gold-sculpted camel will be presented to the champion of Dubai’s newest professional golf tournament, which takes place this week at The Els Club Dubai. “This trophy carries huge significance,” said Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice chairman and CEO of the tournament promoters and organizers, golf in DUBAi, after the ceremony which was attended by Khalid Zarouni, president of the Dubai Sports City, and Jeev Milkha Singh, Asian Tour member and golf in DUBAi ambassador.
“Dubai Sports City was a desert not so long ago. This project started 10 years ago and what you see around here is the story of how Dubai has progressed.
“The DUBAi Open will, hopefully, be another success for Dubai Sports City along with cricket, football, golf and many other different sports. We also thank our friends from the Asian Tour for allowing us the opportunity to host one of their tournaments in Dubai.
“Much of our gratitude needs to go to Jeev (Milkha Singh) for introducing the idea of an Asian Tour in Dubai because as Asia is an important and close ally in this part of the world. The tournament itself will of course be good for golf fans in the UAE,” he said.
Khalid Zarouni spoke of the pride felt by Dubai Sports City as hosts the event, at The Els Club. “We have always supported golf initiatives in Dubai. WE have long had the ambition to play a major event here and we look forward to a successful week.”
A two-time winner of the Asian Tour’s Order of Merit title, Singh thanked golf in DUBAi and Dubai Sports City for supporting the DUBAi Open and making it happen.
“I had the idea and Mohamed was good enough to take that on board and make it happen,” said Singh, who celebrated his 44th birthday on Monday.
“I have been part of the golf in DUBAi family for a long time and this is another great opportunity for me to be here. I’ve heard fantastic things about the course at The Els Club and I am sure we will have a good week. I hope the players will enjoy this fantastic place.
“As far I am concerned, I am here to enjoy the atmosphere, the game and the week.”
