With the Omega Dubai Desert Classic fast approaching, the sale of tickets has picked up pace ahead of the 28th edition of the European Tour event that gets under way at Emirates Golf Club from February 2 to 5.

Featuring Tiger Woods, world number two Rory McIlroy, The Open champion Henrik Stenson and The Masters winner Danny Willett, who is also the defending champion, among other top-draws in a star-studded field, the tournament exudes the energy of a Major, promising an absorbing fare at the Majlis course.

Aptly taglined, Made for Greatness, the tournament begins with the customary Wednesday Pro Am which will have a morning and afternoon draw, giving spectators a unique opportunity to see the top pros up close and personal in a relaxed atmosphere as the top stars ‘warm up’ alongside their amateur playing partners.

‘golf in DUBAi, the promoters and organisers at the event, are calling upon fans to buy tickets online by visiting the tournament web site www.dubaidesertclassic.com to avoid the usual last-minute rush.

Daily tickets for the four-day main competition, starting on February 2, are priced at Dh 175. A season pass, which provides access all week, including the Pro Am day, is available for Dh 675.

Tickets to the Omega Dubai Desert Classic Pro Am on Wednesday, February 1, cost Dh 75 each.

Members of GOLF CITIZEN, the new golf reservation website launched by golf in DUBAi in 2011, have been offered a special 10 per cent discount on tickets. Golfers from around the world can register as a ‘GOLF CITIZEN’ for free and buy their tickets on golfcitizen.com

All those aged 18 and under, will be allowed free entry to the course if they are accompanied by an adult who is holding a valid ticket for the day.

Hospitality packages at the Terrace overlooking the practice green and first tee are also now on sale with packages starting from Dh 695 (daily) to Dh 2995 (season) and can be booked by visiting the tournament website.

First-class entertainment awaits the fans at The Village that has been given a makeover with a variety of new attractions. A giant TV screen has been installed there for fans to keep up with the live action. Food trucks and beverage outlets, fun games for children and golf clinics will further add to the carnival-like atmosphere.

Various distributors of golf equipment and apparel will also display their wares at the exhibition units in The Village.

“With so many big names in the field, we expect a great turn out of fans on all tournament days,” said Mohamed Buamaim, vice-chairman and CEO of golf in DUBAI.

“We have been fielding requests from a number of travel agencies, tour companies and golf fans around the world who want to visit Dubai and be part of the family atmosphere during the tournament,” he added.

The Omega Dubai Desert Classic is backed by OMEGA as the title sponsor and Emirates Global Aluminium PJSC as sponsor. The co-sponsors are: CNN, Drydocks World, Emirates NBD, Gulf News, JA Resorts & Hotels, Mercedes-Benz and wasl, while Dubai Duty Free, Neocasa Interiors and Motivate Publishing are the Patrons in golf in DUBAi’s drive to showcase the emirate’s vibrant golfing scene to a worldwide audience.