By Duncan Mackay

Gil HanseJune 24 - Gil Hanse, the architect behind the controversial golf course being built in Rio de Janeiro for when the sport makes its return to the Olympics in 2016 after a 112-year absence, has been commissioned by Trump International to design a new development in Dubai.


Set in Damac's latest Akoya development, the 7,205-yard, par 71, 18-hole championship course, developed by American property billionaire Donald Trump, will be the focal point of a new 28 million square foot development in the Emirate.

Construction is already underway at the project, which will include a 30,000 sq ft club house -claimed to be the largest of its kind in Dubai - as well as a Trump Spa and Wellness centre and a selection of dining venues, all of which will be managed by Trump.

Akoya project artists impressionThe new 18-hole championship golf course being designed by Gil Hanse will form the centrepiece of the new Akoya project in Dubai

It will be 15th course Trump International will manage but its first in the Middle East.

"Gil is easily one of the most sought after golf course designers in the world," said Donald Trump, best known globally these days for his role on the NBC reality show The Apprentice.

"We are confident that Gil will bring his unique perspective and expertise to what will soon become the greatest golf course in the region."

Donald Trump in The ApprenticeBillionaire Donald Trump is perhaps best known these days for his role on the hit television show, The Apprentice, where he hires and fires contestants

Hanse was a surprise choice in the eyes of many to design the Rio 2016 course as the sport makes its first appearance in the Olympics since St Louis 1904, ahead of better known names like Gary Player, Greg Norman and Jack Nicklaus, but is clearly already benefitting from the exposure that it is bringing.

"We have always aspired to design courses around the globe and Dubai is one of the most sought after golfing destinations in the world," he said.

"It is an honour to team up with Mr Trump again and we are looking forward to bringing forth our expertise to develop a strategic, fun and interesting course, which will fit into its surroundings, while being accessible for all."

Hanse has been charged with delivering the finest course in the Middle East, with the goal of hosting a professional tour event.

The course is due to be completed by the end of 2013, with the surrounding luxury villas and mansions, which overlook the course following over the next couple of years.