Champion Woods will return to Dubai in 2007

DUBAI, May 2 (Reuters) World number one Tiger Woods has agreed to defend his Dubai Desert Classic title in 2007.

According to the terms of a new contract with tournament promoters Golf in Dubai, Woods will compete in the event at least three times in the next four years.

''We are naturally delighted and proud Tiger Woods has again agreed to join us for the Dubai Desert Classic,'' Golf in Dubai chairman Mohamed Alabbar told Reuters today.

''Having the world's greatest golfer play in your event is something many tournaments dream of, and for us to be able to welcome him again to the Majlis Course is a major boost for golf in the west asia, especially Dubai.'' Woods said he was looking forward to returning to the United Arab Emirates.

''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 retain my title.

But it's a great venue, the course is always in immaculate condition and the weather reminds me of back home in Florida.'' The 30-year-old American won the European Tour event in February, defeating South African Ernie Els in a playoff.

Reuters PG RN1820