United Arab Emirates, Dubai- 31st January 2008:  Emirates NBD, the Dubai-based banking group resulting from the merger of Emirates Bank Group and National Bank of Dubai announced its 'Official Bank' title and co-sponsorship of the Dubai Desert Classic 2008.  The event which is scheduled to take place on the 29th January until the 3rd February will be held at the Emirates Golf Club.

Mr. Rick Pudner, Emirates NBD CEO commented on the bank's sponsorship by saying, "Dubai Desert Classic has been an important milestone on the Dubai's sporting calendar since 1989 and it brings us great pleasure to be a fundamental part of this established and world-class event.  Emirates NBD acknowledges the value of such events in raising awareness of the city of Dubai and its sponsors, not only on a local level, but also on a global level. Our official bank status at this international sporting event, which sees the arrival of the best golfers from around the world, is a very significant commitment and is aligned with our overall goals and strategies."

Emirates NBD, the official bank at Dubai Desert Classic 2008, has set up a full-fledged stand at the event to promote both its premium Al Shaheen and Suhail products - the group's priority banking divisions. Emirates NBD has also set up a money exchange counter to offer, foreign exchange services to the tourists at the event. 

As an added value, Emirates NBD will be offering visitors of the Dubai Desert Classic fantastic views of the greens through rides on its very own Emirates NBD hot-air balloon. Customers will be required to fill out a simple form to secure their spot on the hot-air balloon.
These forms will later be entered into a raffle draw offering customers the chance to win a grand golfing prize, worth AED 4,000/- in shopping vouchers.

Emirates NBD will be hosting a Corporate Hospitality Chalet for its valued clients. Over looking the 18th Green, the bank's VIP guests will be offered the best seats to watch the game.  A daily raffle draw will take place, offering the chalet's guests the chance of winning AED 1000 worth of golfing vouchers.

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Reported by: Zeina El-Haj,Head of Marketing, PR, Event & Sponsorship,Retail Banking, Consumer Finance & Wealth Management,Emirates NBD
Reported on: 31.01.2008