Troon Appointed to Manage Taba Heights and El Gouna Golf Resorts by Orascom Hotels & Development

Located at two of Egypt's finest golf destinations

(Scottsdale, Ariz.) - Troon, the leader in upscale golf course management, development and marketing announced it has been appointed by Orascom Hotels & Development, the largest single hotel owner in Egypt, to manage its world-class facilities at Taba Heights (www.tabaheights.com) and El Gouna (www.elgouna.com).

The signing ceremony recently took place at Orascom's Swiss headquarters following a site visit at one of their newest developments at the foot of the Gotthard Pass, Andermatt Swiss Alps. The agreement to manage Taba Heights and El Gouna will enhance not only the service, quality and marketing capabilities at each property, but will also assist in promoting the region as a recognized golf tourism destination.

"Our agreement with Orascom Hotels & Development is another significant signing for Troon's EMEA portfolio," commented Bruce Glasco, Troon's senior vice president, managing director, Europe, Middle East and Africa division. "Our EMEA team will rely on its unrivalled expertise to further enhance the golfer experience and the quality of amenities and services available."

Voted the best golf course in Egypt, Taba Heights is located 20 miles from Taba International Airport on the east coast of the Sinai Peninsula, at the northern end of the Gulf of Aqaba. Designed by Florida-based architect John Sanford, the magnificent 18-hole desert layout provides spectacular views from every hole as it lies between the imposing Sinai Mountains and the deep blue waters of the Red Sea. The resort's village and five-star hotels blend effortlessly into the breath-taking natural backdrop of untamed desert, cinnamon mountains and vibrant sea.

El Gouna, home to 14 spectacular hotels and built along six miles of beachfront, is the Red Sea's premier leisure destination. Designed by Gene Bates and Fred Couples, its 18-hole championship golf course was built to the highest PGA standards and has proven to be a popular year-round destination for golfers from Germany, France, Italy and Scandinavia. Award-winning American architect, Michael Graves is the mastermind behind the property's stunning clubhouse and the innovative and exciting style that surrounds El Gouna.

Orascom Hotels & Development is the primary designer, developer, contractor and marketing force behind the highly successful El Gouna, Taba Heights, Tala Bay and The Cove projects. It is also one of the key private players in the tourism sector and the largest single hotel owner in Egypt.

"We are delighted to welcome the renowned expertise of Troon," said Gerhard Niesslein, the new CEO of Orascom Development Holding AG. "Their impressive portfolio and collective experience sets the right platform for us to take El Gouna and Taba Heights golf courses to the next level. Troon will assist us in coping with the upscale movement we are witnessing in Taba Heights and El Gouna as well as establishing consistent performance and quality of golf service across both destinations, and most importantly reach out to new golf markets."

Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, Troon EMEA is committed to developing Troon's presence in Europe, Middle East and Africa. This rapidly expanding division now oversees operations at 37 courses in 13 countries including Dubai, England, Russia, South Africa and Spain with further expansion planned across all regions.

Headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz., Troon is the world's largest golf management company, overseeing operations at Troon Golf (daily-fee & resort) and Troon Privé (private) properties located in 29 states and 26 countries. Additionally, 47 Troon facilities enjoy a Top 100 ranking by national or international publications. Troon properties include The Grove, London, England; Classic Club, Palm Desert, Calif.; and Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort, El Jadida, Morocco.

Visit www.TroonGolf.com for additional news and information.

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