"It was a big surprise," Federer said on Sunday.

"But I see it as a very nice chance for both of us to play another good match."

Federer beat the big-serving Safin in straight sets in Melbourne last month to claim his second grand slam title, following the Russian's surprise run to the final after missing most of 2003 with injury.

Former world number one and 2000 US Open champion Safin enters the Dubai tournament as a wildcard.

"It's quite unbelievable to be playing a grand slam final in the first round," said Federer.

"It makes me prepare even better and focus more because I know how dangerous and what a good player he is.

"It's one of my most difficult first rounds. I remember once I played Hewitt in Toronto in the first round, but we were both ranked around 20 or 30.

"So I think this is one of the toughest because I'm number one in the world and he's number two in the Champions Race. We're both right on top, so this is quite special."

Federer pulled out of the Marseille Open last week after complaining of fatigue and shoulder and foot injuries, but says he is now anxious to get back on to court.

"I feel better now," he said. "I really needed a break because I felt like my body was hurting a lot."

While some players complain of the pressure associated with being number one, 22-year-old Federer takes the opposite view.

"I feel now that I've reached the top that I'm much more relaxed. I know what I can do and what I have to do to win."

Federer is still looking for a coach, but the confidence he has in himself means that he is not desperate for guidance.

"I'm not planning to travel with one the next few weeks," he said.

"And I have nothing in mind or planned yet.

"I'm definitely looking for a coach because I feel that at my age I still need one, I can still improve in a lot of areas of my game, even though I am the best right now.