Emaar Hospitality Group, the hospitality & leisure subsidiary of Emaar Properties, has appointed Philip Grant as General Manager of Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club, the premier leisure destination in Dubai dedicated to polo and equestrian activities. In his new role, Mr Grant will further strengthen the equestrian components of Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club and position the Club as an all-season leisure destination.

Extending over 68 acres of desert landscape, the Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club hosts polo, show jumping & dressage, horse riding and desert hacking for equestrian enthusiasts. The clubhouse has several social, leisure and business amenities including lounges, restaurants, conference rooms, party venues and an Angsana Spa.

Mr Marc Dardenne, Chief Executive Officer, Emaar Hospitality Group, said: “The Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club is one of Emaar’s premier leisure destinations, which has energised the equestrian leisure sector in the region. Philip Grant is a seasoned professional in the equestrian industry, and he will not only further build on the equestrian components of the Club but also create a dynamic leisure destination leveraging on his two decades of experience in the hospitality sector.”

Mr Grant said: “The Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club has set new standards in equestrian-related leisure activities in the region. Apart from the extensive equestrian facilities, it also has one of the finest clubhouses in the region that is ideal for business and leisure get-togethers. Our outlook will be to give members and visitors added incentives to frequent the Club through varied events and amenities.”

A qualified riding instructor, Mr Grant is in the process of implementing several equestrian activities in the Middle East in line with the British Horse Society protocols. Having dedicated the past ten years in Tertiary Education and working in renowned colleges in the UK, he also has over 20 years of experience in the equestrian sector and several years of hands-on experience in the hotel and catering sector.

Mr Grant has designed, managed and taught courses within the equine industry for novices and experienced riders. He was involved in managing The Scottish Racing Academy and was lead consultant for writing and validating new qualifications with the Scottish Qualification Authority. He also rode and competed at national and international tournaments and has bred and trained horses to very high levels.

The Dubai Polo and Equestrian Club has 336 stables, 25 paddocks, two polo fields, one practice field and two riding/ show jumping arenas. The all-weather surfaces of the riding, show jumping and dressage areas are regarded as among the best in the region. Stable tours, kids pony day, desert rides, horse riding and polo lessons are also provided by the Club.

source : Emaar