Global Edition

Troon appointed at two of Egypt’s finest golf destinations

8.47am 16th December 2011 - Corporate

From left to right - Hamza Selim, SVP Destinations Management & Land Development – Egypt, Bruce Glasco, Managing Director, Troon Europe, Middle East and Africa, Gerhard Niesslein, CEO Orascom Development

The World’s leading golf management company has been trusted with managing golf operations at two of Egypt’s finest golf destinations

Troon ®, the leader in upscale golf course management, development and marketing is delighted to announce that it has been appointed by Orascom Hotels and Development, the largest single hotel owner in Egypt, to manage its world-class facilities atTabaHeightsand El Gouna.

The signing ceremony took place at Orascom’s Swiss headquarters following a site visit at one of their newest developments at the foot of the Gotthard Pass, Andermatt Swiss Alps where a Kurt Rossknecht 18-hole layout is expected to open in 2013.

The agreement will see Troon bring its internationally renowned industry expertise to the current two 18-hole courses inEgyptand enhance not only the service, quality and marketing capabilities, but also assist in the continued progression of the region as a recognised golf tourism destination.

“Our agreement with Orascom Hotels and Development is another significant signing for Troon’s EMEA portfolio. They have two respected championship golf courses at El Gouna and Taba Heights which have already built a strong reputation in the golfing world. The EMEA team will be relying on its unrivalled expertise to further enhance the golfer experience and the quality of amenities and services available,” commented Bruce Glasco, Managing Director, Troon Europe, Middle East andAfrica. “What has been clear in our relationship with the developers is the desire to retain standards and instil a feeling of value for guests. No one in the industry has the ability to integrate as comprehensive a service whilst maximising economies of scale without compromising standards as we do at Troon. This unique expertise remains integral to our continued success.”

Voted the Number 1 golf course in Egypt,Taba Heights is located 20 miles fromTabaInternationalAirporton the east coast of the Sinai Peninsula, at the northern end of theGulf of Aqaba. Designed by Florida-based architect, John Sanford, the magnificent 18-hole desert layout provides spectacular views from every hole as it lies between the imposing Sinai Mountains and the deep blue waters of the Red Sea. The resort’s village and five-star hotels blend effortlessly into the breath-taking natural backdrop of untamed desert, cinnamon mountains and vibrant sea.

El Gouna, home to 14 spectacular hotels built along 10 km of beachfront, is theRed Sea’s premier leisure destination. Designed by Gene Bates and one of world golf’s most popular players, Fred Couples, its 18-hole championship golf course has been built to the highest PGA standards and has already proved to be a popular year-round destination for golfers from Germany, France, Italy and Scandinavia. Award-winning American architect, Michael Graves has also been the mastermind behind the stunning club house and the innovative and exciting style that surrounds El Gouna.

Orascom Hotels & Development is the primary designer, developer, contractor and marketing force behind the highly successful El Gouna,TabaHeights,TalaBayand The Cove projects. It is also one of the key private players in the tourism sector and the largest single hotel owner inEgypt.

“We are delighted to welcome the renowned expertise of Troon. Their impressive portfolio and collective experience sets the right platform for us to take El-Gouna andTabaHeightsgolf courses to the next level,” commented Gerhard Niesslein, the new CEO of Orascom Development Holding AG.

“Egypt’s year-round sun makes it a golfer’s paradise, and we realise that there are great opportunities for us to capitalise on. Troon will assist us in coping with the upscale movement we are witnessing inTabaHeightsand El Gouna as well as establishing consistent performance and quality of golf service across both destinations, and most importantly reach out to new golf markets,” added Niesslein.

Troon www.troongolf.com

Orascom Hotels and Development www.orascomhd.com

TroonTabaHeights.

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