Shaikh Holdings, the leading Dubai-based real estate investment and development company, has announced the start of construction at its prestigious Sanctuary Falls villa development in Jumeirah Golf Estates. The start of construction was marked by a tee-off event at the Sanctuary Falls site, and signified the beginning of this landmark boutique community in Dubai. The award-winning Sanctuary Falls project, aims to create a new benchmark in community living by being the first resort-style residential golf community in the UAE.

Executives from Shaikh Holdings, Leisurecorp, Arabtec, DSA International, Hirsch Bedner Associates, Scavolini, Quintessentially and Archimedia attended the momentous event.  “Today we have reached a significant milestone for Sanctuary Falls and the creation of a truly unique residential golf community for Dubai. We are all very excited on this auspicious occasion as we move one step closer towards the realization of the Sanctuary Falls dream. We are glad to share this moment with all our partners who have worked hard to make this community a great success.” said Imran Shaikh, CEO, Shaikh Holdings.

”When we stand here, we look at how the Shaikh family have stood behind their project, and have been emblematic of everything that we stand for. We believe that we have chosen a partner who reflects the spirit of Leisurecorp and reflects the spirit of Jumeirah Golf Estates. Perhaps, more importantly, they reflect the spirit of everything that is good about Dubai and what Dubai stands for, which is ‘The race for quality knows no finish line’, in the words of His Highness.” said David Spencer, CEO, Leisurecorp.

The ceremony was complemented by a site tour of Sanctuary Falls, where the executives also got a chance to view the significant development progress taking place on the Earth golf course. The Earth course designed by Greg Norman was recently announced as the chosen venue for the richest golf tournament in the world, the Dubai World Championship.

Mr. Spencer added: ‘When I look out here, with our team, where we are standing now is the Earth golf course, which is going to be the home of the first ever Dubai World Championship. This is a very special part of the fabric of Dubai and what will be the future of Dubai.”

The Sanctuary Falls community, situated in Jumeirah Golf Estates features a collection of 96 resort-style villas overlooking the Earth golf course, designed by Greg Norman. With the Earth course as host venue for the inaugural Dubai World Championship, Sanctuary Falls will not only offer high value luxury homes overlooking the Earth course but will provide a life-time experience for residents to witness the world’s richest Golf tournament.

“A decade ago Dubai was a fledgling city with two golf courses. However, in a very short span Dubai has radically progressed to become one of the top international golfing destinations in the world. With the announcement of the Dubai World championship being held next year at Jumeirah Golf Estates, Dubai’s profile will get a significant boost around the world. As developers of Sanctuary Falls, we are proud to be a part of Jumeirah Golf Estates and to be in the midst of history in the making,” said Mr. Shaikh.

Shaikh Holdings holds a significant portfolio of residential, commercial and hospitality real estate and has been a leading institutional investor in the Dubai real estate market since 2002. Shaikh Holdings is focused on developing themed boutique communities across the region, many centred around golf and waterfront concepts.

© 2008 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)