The Abu Dhabi Challenge returns to Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club for the third successive year as part of the HotelPlanner Tour, which operates as a key development pathway toward the DP World Tour, according to the Emirates News Agency. Ahmad Skaik and Ahmed Al Musharekh earned two of the 30 places allocated to the Emirates Golf Federation for the event running from September 30 to October 3, giving them the chance to measure their skills against emerging international talent. The federation’s partnership with the tour also allows place exchanges with other national bodies, expanding competitive opportunities for UAE players at HotelPlanner Tour stops worldwide.
Skaik previously featured in the Abu Dhabi Challenge in both 2024 and 2025 while also taking part in the inaugural UAE Cup at the same venue in October 2024, ARN News Centre reported. He became the first Emirati to make the cut at a European Tour Group event during the 2025 UAE Challenge at Al Zorah Golf and Yacht Club before turning professional on the MENA Golf Tour at its season-opening event in Portugal. Ahmed Al Musharekh joins him as the pair looks to build on the progress UAE golfers have made in recent seasons.
The tournament serves as the last chance for competitors to qualify for the HotelPlanner Tour’s two Final Swing events in China, with only the top 68 players on the Road to Mallorca Rankings advancing at the conclusion of play in Al Ain, Gulf Today figures show. Stakes remain elevated throughout the four rounds as participants chase vital ranking points. A strong performance could prove decisive for those still in contention for season-ending advancement.
Former European Ryder Cup representative Chris Wood and current Road to Mallorca leader Christofer Blomstrand lead the confirmed international entries, the tour’s announcements state. UAE-based professionals David Horsey, Adri Arnaus and Dominic Foos bring additional local interest while Craig Howie of Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club competes on his home layout. The field combines established names with rising prospects from across the HotelPlanner Tour roster.
The event takes place in partnership with the Emirates Golf Federation as the official sanctioning body and with support from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, according to the Emirates News Agency. HotelPlanner Tour Director Jamie Hodges said the UAE has established itself as an important destination for professional golf. Emirates Golf Federation President General Abdullah Al Hashmi added that the 30 allocated places provide an invaluable opportunity for UAE-based players to compete against a high-quality international field and gain experience at this level of the game.
Entry is free for spectators across all four days of competition, the organizers confirmed. The Abu Dhabi Challenge continues a pattern of successful UAE staging for the tour, which saw Italian Renato Paratore claim victories in both 2025 UAE events before securing DP World Tour promotion through a strong Road to Mallorca finish, Khaleej Times archives show. Such outcomes underline the platform’s value for players seeking to climb professional golf’s ranks.
