The 27-year-old has signed a four-year deal after agreeing the switch last month.

His move was complicated by the need to complete 21 days of military service, which involved on his return to his home country.

Speaking at a press conference to announce his signing for an undisclosed fee, Emre said: "I have been playing in Europe for so many years, and now it is time for me to come back to my country to lead Fenerbahce to greater victories.

"I'm so happy to be here right now. While playing for Newcastle, Fenerbahce also wanted to sign me, but it was not the right time for me to leave Europe.

"Today, I feel I am in the right place at the right time. My family also wanted me to come back to my country.

"Fenerbahce's Skr Saracoglu Stadium is the most beautiful stadium in Turkey. It's really unique, and I'm sure I will enjoy every moment that I'll spend here.

"I'm new here, but my team-mates have been great to me and we have a brilliant set of fans. I want to end my career in this great club."

Emre joined Newcastle in a £3.8million move from Inter Milan during the summer of 2005, and although he showed flashes of his ability on Tyneside, where he worked under four different managers, injuries denied him a sustained run in the team.

But having returned to Turkey, where he made his name with Galatasaray, he is determined to prove himself all over again.

He said: "First of all, I'm very thankful to our president and to our directors for making me feel so welcome since I arrived.

"From now on, I will do my utmost to be successful."

Emre's departure follows Newcastle's summer recruitment of midfielders Jonas Gutierrez and Danny Guthrie.