Al-Futtaim today re-affirmed its satisfaction on the selection of InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) as managers and operators of the multi-million dirham Al Badia Golf Club at the award-winning Dubai Festival City.

The extending of existing strategic relationships with IHG which already manages three iconic properties in Dubai Festival City is seen as consistent with Al-Futtaim’s objectives and those of Dubai Festival City, globally acknowledged as one of the finest mixed use developments in the region.

The hospitality giants will assume management of Al Badia Golf Club from 1 July 2009. IHG has already laid out programmes to enhance the guest experience and service by integrating Al Badia Golf Club with its celebrated creek side icons; the InterContinental Dubai Festival City, the Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City and the InterContinental Residence Suites.

Brett Schafer, Senior Managing Director, Al-Futtaim Group Real Estate (AFGRE) said: “InterContinental Hotels Group has displayed strength of commitment to maximising long-term asset value. Thus the coming together of the Al Badia brand with IHG’s broad-based management expertise promises to further enhance Dubai Festival City’s international image as an outstanding lifestyle and business destination with great hospitality and leisure offerings for all its guests, shoppers, visitors and residents” Mr. Schafer said.

AFGRE is a key division of Al-Futtaim and is responsible for the development and management of the group’s real estate businesses across the MENA region. AFGRE is responsible for the conception, procurement and construction of a number of mega projects including the flagship Dubai Festival City and Cairo Festival City.

John Bamsey, Chief Operating Officer, InterContinental Hotels Group Middle East and Africa said: “We are delighted Al-Futtaim has selected IHG to manage the prestigious Al Badia Golf Club.  This will further leverage the hotel’s strong presence in Dubai Festival City and ensure Al Badia Golf Club InterContinental Dubai Festival City’s guest and members receive extraordinary experiences through personalised service, consistency and uncompromising attention to detail.”

The 7,303-yard Robert Trent Jones II designed Al Badia golf course and the superbly conceptualised clubhouse is internationally recognised as among the finest PGA standard golf venues which has become integral to Dubai’s rich golfing traditions.