Over the past 12 months there have been masses of articles written in the international press discussing the golf industry boom in Dubai.

I have to say that although the majority of views presented are extremely positive, not all of it is.

Environmentalists are concerned with the huge water consumption each course requires and what effect that has on resources.

This week has witnessed a true milestone in the sporting history, culture and tradition of Dubai – the 20th anniversary of the "Desert Miracle" – the first grass golf course in the Middle East – "The Majlis Course" at Emirates Golf Club.

In a city and indeed a region where local sporting heritage such as dhow racing and camel racing have limited appeal among the large expatriate population, I feel it is essential that milestones such as these are recognised in the public eye and those involved are credited with a fabulous job well done.

For years to come the Majlis Course will be seen as a true marvel of engineering at a time when industry peers said that a golf course built on the indigenous soils of Dubai and having to endure the blistering summer heat and humidity "couldn’t be done!" Well, I guess they were wrong.

I have recently been in Oman for a concept presentation meeting for a new golf and lifestyle development and had the pleasure of meeting up with the golf course design team of Gary Player Design, including the legend himself.

Aside from his golfing prowess, Gary Player is renowned for his commitment to nature and to the protection of the environment.

The past few weeks I’ve discussed educational opportunities available locally for budding young golfers or enthusiasts wishing to join the golf industry, and how to become a PGA professional.

Following numerous conversations this week with my industry peers, it has been interesting to learn that not only is there a lot of interest in the PGA qualification here, but equally there is tremendous amount of interest among low-handicapped teens in mixing higher education with first-class golf tuition in pursuit of greater things within the game.

There are leading institutions around the world that offer the very best in golf scholarships, and which become exceptionally attractive propositions to youngsters wishing to see the world.