Tennis and Country Club, Fujairah looking to serve the Community
As things cool down and people start to return from their summer vacations, people are asking: What is happening at Fujairah Tennis & Country Club? Fujairah Observer took time out to chat to the new management and get some answers about plans for the club - who’s in charge, and what does it all mean for residents and visitors.
1. What can Fujairah residents expect from FTC, as it reopens under new management?
Residents should definitely notice the breath of fresh air we have brought into the Tennis & Country Club, Fujairah. Although not all elements are in place at the moment of opening, we have a clear idea about where we are headed. Our vision is to turn the club into a wellness oriented centre with a spa, ayurvedic centre, nutritionist, extensive sporting activities, and a renowned brand for the hair salon as well as a sports shop. We are proud to highlight that major works have taken place to make the club a safe environment for everyone. The club went through a complete revamp of the safety facilities, such as the installation of the sprinkler system, enhanced CCTV, pool safety works, new kitchen and bar equipment, new sauna and Jacuzzi systems in place, landscaping and a kids corner to name but a few. We then brought in two exciting dining options to the club, one being the pool restaurant which will offer items from the grill as well as oven baked pizzas and then the franchised brand of McGettigans, a trendy Irish pub. Having that said we shouldn’t forget about the service side and the running of the operation. With our extensive and well reputed management in hospitality in the Emirate for almost 12 years now, we are certain that residents will quickly feel at home.
2. Are there going to be any notable new dining options?
Absolutely! Our main dining facility will be the award winning McGettigan’s pub that has taken Dubai and Abu Dhabi by storm in recent years. The pub brand has a strong Irish heritage yet is known for providing guests with “The Modern Irish Experience” and the best in Irish food, beverage and live music & entertainment. With current popular locations in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai Airport and Al Raha Beach Resort in Abu Dhabi, McGettigan’s FJR promises to bring an exciting and lively new venue to Fujairah. We strongly believe that Fujairah residents and visitors will look forward to the numerous daily promotions and events at the pub, not to forget the extensive coverage of sports matches, great food and a guaranteed high level of service from our staff. The McGettigan’s pub is open to the public and no club membership will be required.
We will also have another exciting dining option at the pool, which will be exclusive to club members and day pass guests. Open for lunch, the pool bar & restaurant offers a wide selection of foods from the barbeque and oven baked pizzas. Members can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea with the Hajar Mountains as a backdrop or have a drink at our swim up bar.
3. Does the management have any big events in the pipeline?
With the opening due to happen in October, we are thinking about hosting an Oktoberfest for possibly three days, which will be a perfect chance for residents of Fujairah to get a first-hand look at our facilities and offerings. We will be closely working with the Fujairah Cellars, who will give us strong support with their wide and well developed network, making it the event not to be missed. For the past 8 years we have hosted a yearly charity event in Le Meridien Al Aqah in the month of December, namely the Al Aqah Fun Day. We are considering bringing this one day event into the Tennis & Country Club, this way making it much more accessibly for families with young kids to come. Last year we managed to raise over AED 100,000 in funds and we are confident this year will be even better. There is always plenty of entertainment such as rodeo bull, bouncy castle for children, tug-of-war and Best Cake of the East Coast competition, a fair with some great bargains and not to forget the raffle draw, which has always included an Emirates return flight to some great destinations around the world. A full day event with live music and different stalls offering international cuisine keep this event buzzing even after the sun has set. Apart from these two major events in the pipeline, we are also opening the doors to the community to rent the large indoor sporting hall or outdoor tennis stadium for any events they wish to host. This could range from annual school fairs, concerts, a Christmas market, sporting competitions and more.
4. What kind of membership options are there going to be for residents?
We have designed a very appealing and flexible membership structure which will allow people to choose the option that would be most beneficial for them. This way they wouldn’t have to pay for a full membership when they only plan to use part of the offerings. Two membership types will be implemented; one a Gym only membership and the other the full Tennis & Country Club membership, the latter will also include a year-round discount of F&B in Le Meridien Al Aqah. Both will have single, couple and family options and we have considered a special discount for students in the community. A benefit of the full membership is that it will include discounts at all our dining outlets which means members can enjoy a nice meal or drink without an additional high cost.
5. Can we expect more community involvement with the new management?
Yes for sure. We are a strong supporter when it comes to helping the community and getting involved in any activities where we can. This is why we would also like to highlight that we encourage people to approach us for help. Aside from this, management will setup a community council, inviting different members from the community to help with integration and matters that will benefit the community at large.
6. Where can past and future members direct their queries?
Angelo Soysa Operational Manager
+971 50 390 5463
Tennis & Country Club, Fujairah