RTJ II to design Sama Dubai's scenic Salam Yiti Resort-Oman

Sama Dubai, the international real estate investment and development arm of Dubai Holding, yesterday announced it has appointed globally pre-eminent golf course architects Robert Trent Jones II (RTJ II) as designers of the 18-hole championship course at the Salam Yiti Resort-Oman.

Scheduled to open in 2010, the 18-hole course will offer panoramic views of the Gulf of Oman. Farhan Faraidooni, Executive Chairman of Sama Dubai, said: "We conduct in-depth market studies for our projects prior to designating renowned partners who uphold our values in designing and developing our exceptional concepts for landmark destinations.

"The new architects have been engaged to work alongside our master planners to maximise the natural beauty of the topography by developing an outstanding golf course as a core component of the resort. We are also delighted to inform we have made excellent progress on enabling works at the golf course."

According to recent research by the independent consultant Longitudes Group LLC, over a 10-year period real estate on RTJ II-designed courses appreciated more in value than homes on courses by other golf course architects.

Additionally, in its bid to reiterate its commitment to sustainability initiatives, Sama Dubai along with RTJ II, IGLS and the environmental consultant Energy Management Services (EMS), have undertaken a number of studies to ensure the golf course adheres to eco-friendly standards.

The golf course will be the second project to be designed in the Middle East by Robert Trent Jones II. Salam Yiti, a S$2 billion (Dh5.1bn) project, encompasses an integrated residential resort between Oman's dramatic Al Hajar Ash Sharqi mountains and a beach.

Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.