AJMAN // Residents are delighted that a Dh2 billion project complete with golf course and green spaces is coming to fruition.
The Al Zorah development, on a peninsula on the coastline of Ajman, includes four marinas, six hotels and villas and apartments across 5.4 million square metres.
It is being developed by Ajman government and Solidere International.
Lakes, native sandy areas and nearly two million square metres of mangroves, are home to more than 58 bird species including pink flamingos.
Ajman residents said it was the kind of development the emirate needed.
“It is a vital project that will paint a sophisticated and civilised image of the emirate, and it will increase green areas, preserve the environment and offer beauty,” said Brig Gen Saleh Al Matrooshi, a director at Ajman Civil Defence.
The 53-year-old, a golfer of more than 20 years, stopped playing as the emirate lacked a course. Now that Al Zorah Golf Club is open, he and his 14-year-old son go every day.
“The golf club is a first-class project and the first one in Ajman. We should encourage these sports projects,” he said.
Mohammed Majid, an Emirati from Al Jurf, which is a few minutes away from Al Zorah, said that the area has been transformed from a no-man’s land to a lively place for recreation.
“The location of the project is great, where people can go for relaxation and enjoy the flamingos and mangroves.
“In addition, Ajman’s residents can spent their holidays there instead of travelling to another emirate or country, as everything is available,” the 40-year-old said.
Mr Majid added that the grass and trees protect the environment but that buying a property there will be mainly the preserve of expatriates, or for investors.
“I don’t think Ajman’s residents and Emiratis will buy here because their houses are close to the project, but tourists or residents from other emirates will buy a villa, apartment or chalet,” he said.
Philip Henderson, general manager at Al Zorah Golf Club, said that the project will bring in people who have never been to the emirate.
A recent tournament at the course, which opened three weeks ago, hosted 200 players, many of them first-time visitors to Ajman.
The 18-hole layout was created by Nicklaus Design – founded by golfing legend Jack Nicklaus – and managed by Troon Golf.
“Hopefully, what we do will attract people from Dubai and Abu Dhabi for the weekend,” Mr Henderson said.
Golf is more popular with expatriates than Emiratis, but the club intended to offer coaching lessons to locals.
Mr Henderson added that championship tournaments will be held at the club in the coming year and that he hoped to host a professional event at some point next year.
See www.alzorah.ae. roueiti@thenational.ae
roueiti@thenational.ae