Tim Lobb reports on recent travels:

Whilst visiting Cityscape last week in Dubai it became apparent that the attendance and exhibition stands were down but the development opportunities were more diversified and in many new and developing countries and territories. It was also apparent that golf is playing a major part of the development strategy moving forward.

The striking Meydan development stand at Cityscape Dubai

Spending the week in the Middle East last week was enjoyable and also spent a few days out at our construction project – Dubai Golf City. We have about 14 holes grassed and the Platinum Paspalum turfgrass is coming in a treat. Marking out bunkers and playing some holes on the course were the main achievements as well as meetings with David Brinkel (VP Golf, Dubai Golf City).

The verdant Platinum Paspalum turf at Dubai Golf City

With our Al Madina A’Zarqa (Blue City, Oman) project being only a 45 minute flight from Dubai it was prudent to visit the development team and update each other on the design development. We are nearing completion of the preliminary grading for the golf course and getting a good grasp of the design philosophy of this exciting development.

One night there was a chance to visit the new Dubai Mall near the hotel I was staying at. The mall is huge, like most things in Dubai with an ice skating rink and aquarium within the complex. The aquarium was pretty amazing and could be seen from the middle of the mall.

Sharks, stingrays and fishes galore swimming in the Dubai Mall

The week was completed with a pitch for a new project that we hope to tell more about in time.

Fingers crossed.

Safe travels to all.

Cheers

Tim

WRITTEN ON October 11th, 2009 BY Tim AND STORED IN Our projects, Tim Lobb, Travels