HOTELPLANNER TOUR RETURNS TO THE UAE WITH BACK-TO-BACK EVENTS IN APRIL

Another milestone for UAE golf as Al Zorah Golf & Yacht Club makes Tour debut

Thursday, March 20: The dust has barely settled on a blockbuster period for elite level golf in the GCC, but fans are set for more captivating action as the stars of the HotelPlanner Tour (formerly Challenge Tour), prepare to tee off in two back-to-back events in the UAE next month.

Following an exciting run of DP World Tour events, golf lovers in the region will now have the chance to witness rising stars of the HotelPlanner Tour at close quarters as they battle it out at two of the country’s finest venues in the Emirates Golf Federation co-promoted tournaments.

First up is the UAE Challenge, taking place from April 10-13 at Al Zorah Golf & Yacht Club, which will showcase another gem in the UAE’s portfolio of championship layouts as the spectacular course in Ajman makes its HotelPlanner Tour debut. Crafted by Nicklaus Design, the course is set within a stunning protected mangrove ecosystem, creating a unique backdrop unlike any other in the UAE.

The Tour will then roll into Abu Dhabi for the Abu Dhabi Challenge, returning from April 17-20 at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club—a venue renowned for its exciting layout and firm but fair challenge.

“We’re delighted to be returning to the UAE for these two fantastic events,” said Jamie Hodges, HotelPlanner Tour Director. “The UAE has long been a key destination for developing golf talent, and with the addition of Al Zorah Golf & Yacht Club to the schedule, we continue to showcase some of the region’s most stunning and challenging courses. Both tournaments provide a vital platform for rising stars to gain valuable competitive experience as they strive to progress to the DP World Tour. Our thanks go to our co-promoters the Emirates Golf Federation as well our returning partners, Arena and Al Laith, for making these tournaments possible.”

With 30 spots allocated to co-organiser and sanctioning body Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) across the two events, UAE-based players will have a golden opportunity to test themselves against an elite international field. Through strategic partnerships with other golf federations, the EGF can also exchange spots, offering UAE players invaluable playing opportunities in HotelPlanner Tour events worldwide.

General Abdullah Alhashmi, Vice Chairman of the Emirates Golf Federation, added:
“Developing UAE-based golfers and providing them with pathways to compete at the highest level is a key focus for the Emirates Golf Federation. These two tournaments present an incredible opportunity for our players to gain exposure and experience against top international competition, right here on home soil. Our continued collaboration with the HotelPlanner Tour strengthens our mission to grow the game in the UAE and establish the country as a leading destination for professional and amateur golf.”

Both tournaments are expected to attract strong fields as players compete for crucial ranking points and a potential pathway to the DP World Tour.

With the GCC golf season still in full swing, these two tournaments will further cement the UAE’s reputation as a hub for world-class golf, offering fans another thrilling chapter in what has already been a landmark year for the sport in the region.