Construction work on the Norman Clubhouse at Jumeirah Golf Estates entered a new phase yesterday when the first concrete was poured.

The clubhouse, designed by and named after golf legend Greg Norman, is due to be completed before November 2009 when it will serve the Earth courses at the first Dubai World Championship. The Dh37-million event will be the climax of the European Tour.

Work on the foundations of the 131,000 square feet building – which will be one of the largest clubhouses in the Middle East – was completed in April.

David Spencer, Chief Executive of Golf at Leisurecorp, which owns Jumeirah Golf Estates, said: "This is a big course, with a big tournament and a big designer in Greg Norman. It deserves a big clubhouse and that's what it's getting. This is going to be a stunning facility, which will attract golfers and non-golfers alike.

"I visit the site every few days and it's been exciting to see the foundations take shape. Now, with the first concrete pour, we're seeing an important milestone."

Construction work is being carried out by Al Naboodah Laing O'Rourke, one of two companies awarded the contracts. The firm will also build the Whispering Pines cottages and casitas.

The other company, ANC Contracting, will construct 99 villas in the Flame Tree Ridge real estate development and 66 villas in the Fireside community.

The Mediterranean-influenced clubhouse will offer a range of dining options, a wellness centre comprising a variety of massage and spa treatments, a sports centre,

a nearby tennis academy, two tennis courts and a coaching facility as well as the European Tour Centre of Excellence with an adjoining golf academy.