Emirates NBD drives passion for golf with Omega Dubai Desert Classic

Driven by a 'Passion for Golf', Emirates NBD, a leading bank in the region, continues its long-standing relationship with 'golf in DUBAi' as a co-sponsor, Official Bank and Caddy Bib Sponsor for the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.

The bank will also organise a series of activities to highlight its participation at the event, which will be

held at Emirates Golf Club, in Dubai, from January 30-February 2, 2014.

With World Number One Tiger Woods, Europe’s newly-crowned champion Henrik Stenson and Northern Ireland’s golfing sensation Rory McIlory among other past champions, including fans' favourite Miguel Angel Jimenez, already confirming their participation, the landmark 25th edition of the event will boast a mouth-watering field, befitting the landmark occasion.

The three most sought-after players on the planet will also feature in the Champions’ Challenge, an 18-hole stroke-play showpiece which will see former Omega Dubai Desert Classic (ODDC) champions contest for a share of the $600,000 prize fund while reliving their memorable moments on the Majlis course on Tuesday January 28.

“With a keen interest in elevating the standards of sport in the UAE and in line with our ‘Passion for Golf’ strategy, Emirates NBD is proud to be a sponsor of the 25th anniversary of the Omega Dubai Desert Classic, a great sporting event that reflects our values,” said Shayne Nelson, Group CEO, Emirates NBD.

“As the oldest-running European Tour event in the region, the ODDC has also built a strong reputation and offers spectators a chance to witness golf of a very high standard.

“Traditionally, the game of golf is associated with decision makers and senior level executives, making it an important networking platform for many of our premium clients,” he said.

Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice-chairman and CEO of golf in DUBAi, said: "Sharing Emirates NBD's common goal of further cementing UAE's position as a key player in the world's golfing community, we are delighted to have them once again on board for what we believe will be a splendid event. We are delighted to have such a wonderful family of sponsors at golf in DUBAi.”

‘golf in DUBAi' is backed by Omega as the title sponsor and DUBAL as the sponsor. The co-sponsors are: CNN, Drydocks World & Maritime World, Emirates NBD, Gulf News, Mercedes-Benz and wasl while Dubai Duty Free, Carpetland and Motivate are the Patrons in golf in DUBAi's drive to showcase the emirate's vibrant golfing scene to a worldwide audience.