The Scot has a strong affinity with the Emirate, not only from his numerous visits to the Dubai Desert Classic but also because of the Montgomerie Dubai Course he helped design.

Montgomerie, who claimed last July's Smurfit European Open at The K Club in Ireland for his first victory in 18 months and the 31st of his European Tour career,  said: "I look forward to coming back to Dubai for another try at the title.

"I've been visiting Dubai for many years now, and know it as a world-class golfing destination. Obviously I know The Montgomerie Dubai very well. But all courses in the Emirate are of the highest international standard, and I always enjoy returning to the Majlis Course."

Mohamed Juma Buamaim, vice-chairman and CEO of golf in Dubai, the promoters and organisers of the Dubai Desert Classic, said: "A household name here, Monty will be returning to Dubai for the 18th time in the 19 year history of the Dubai Desert Classic, and once again we hope to see the 'king of swing' spicing up the contest with his exploits on the greens.

"For us, Monty is special - special in the sense that his regular appearances here have gone a long way towards getting our event the world-wide recognition it deserved. We do appreciate his commitment and support to our tournament."

A high-placed finish at the Dubai Desert Classic could kick-start Montgomerie's bid to appear in his ninth Ryder Cup.

The 44 year old, who helped deliver last year's Omega Mission Hills World Cup to Scotland in the company of playing partner Marc Warren, said: "I'd like to participate again in The Ryder Cup. I've played in the last eight, and I'd like to make that nine.

"I need to putt better - I've missed far too many that my competitors are holing. It's just a couple of putts a round, but that's eight shots a tournament. If you take eight shots off of every tournament I play, I'd be winning four or five a year.

"I used to be able to get away with average putting. But not now, because the standards have improved. I've got to putt well to win."

Source: European Tour