Emirates Golf Club as it used to be

In 1986 either signboard was the only indication the first grass Golf Club in the Middle East was being built alongside the Abu Dhabi - Dubai Road. What was previously desert sand dunes had been fenced off. Visitors were not welcomed unless they had official approval to visit the site.

Construction began in 1986 and this is an early photo of the work in progress.

This photo taken in 1986 shows there was mainly desert between EGC and Dubai. The Trade Centre can be seen in the left side distance with Dubai Cement Works on the right side.

Most of EGC's fairways were built in less than two years. This photo taken probably in 1988 shows the remarkable progress. The area is surrounded by water much of which was "run off" from the EGC irrigation. Eventually a wetlands area developed around the course which disappeared when Apartment Blocks and Villas were built.

This photo was taken before EGC opened for business. Although the Clubhouse was completed, the landscaping had yet to establish.

This photo was taken before EGC opened for business. Although the Clubhouse was completed, the landscaping had yet to establish.

This photo was taken before EGC opened for business. Although the Clubhouse was completed, the landscaping had yet to establish.

The Majlis is a private building for the sole use of the Ruling Family. This photo was taken before EGC opened for business. Although the Majlis was completed, the landscaping had yet to establish.

For several months before EGC formally opened, small groups of Golfers from the community were invited to play nine holes with the Club Professional as a way of encouraging Golfers to join this new Club. This photo taken around 1988 shows the trees and bushes have yet to grow. The Golfers are standing on the Tee Box of Hole 1 on the Majlis Course. The Wadi Course was not yet built.

This original scoreboard has since been replaced.

This photo is taken before the surrounding area was developed. In the distance the Bourj Al Arab is being built.

The Mina Seyahi Hotel Strip can seen in the distance but there were not many hotels established at that time. The Marina Development had yet to start. Also shows work starting on the "Show house" Villas that were built behind EGC. These villas were the first to be promoted for purchase by Foreigners.