Tiger Woods has confirmed that he will play in his first Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, taking place from January 26 - 29.
The event is the first leg of the European tour's three-week Middle East swing and will feature a quality field that includes World Number one Luke Donald, US Open champ Rory McIlroy, Open champion Darren Clarke and Masters winner charl Schwartzel.
Other big names set to take part include Lee Westwood and Martin Kaymer, who enjoys a superb record in the event. Earlier this year he beat Rory McIlroy by eight shots to pick up his third Abu Dhabi victory.
"I've heard a lot about Abu Dhabi and the Championship, which is a favourite among many of the players who return each year," said Woods in a staement.
"I'm looking forward to 2012 and what I hope will be a great year of golf for me.
"I've always enjoyed playing in HSBC events around the world, so I have been interested in including the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship in my schedule for some time.
"I am also intrigued to spend time in Abu Dhabi. Visiting new places is one of the things I really enjoy about being a professional golfer."
Kaymer said: "The amazing field means next year is going to be a special event and it will be my toughest Abu Dhabi challenge yet."
Luke Donald commented as well: "Abu Dhabi is putting golf at the heart of its development and the investment in the Abu Dhabi HSBC Golf Championship has created one of the calendar's most attractive dates.
"I don't think it's any surprise to see so many of the world's best players including it on their schedule."
golf365.com