Woods to return to Dubai

Tiger Woods has confirmed he will be returning to the Middle East next year for the Dubai Desert Classic at the end of January.

The 2006 champion, third behind Henrik Stenson and Ernie Els earlier this year, will be making his fifth appearance in the United Arab Emirates, where he is developing a 7,800-yard course.

"I always enjoy visiting Dubai, it's an extremely hospitable place where the people and the tournament organisers treat the players so well," he said.

"The level of competition is always extremely high so I know I'll have to play my best golf if I'm going to win the title again."

Mohamed Buamaim, vice-chairman and chief executive office of promoters and organisers 'Golf in Dubai', added: "We are naturally delighted and proud that Tiger Woods has agreed to join us.

"Having the world's greatest golfer play in your event is something many tournament organisers dream of, so for us to be able to welcome him for the fifth time in eight years is a major boost for golf in the Middle East, especially Dubai.

"We are also looking forward to revealing other major names in the weeks ahead."

The European Tour announced last week they will be staging the world's richest tournament in Dubai in November 2009.

Since it is restricted to the Tour's top 60 money winners of the season, Woods would have to add to his overseas appearances to become eligible.