Emirates Golf Federation rolls out Golf Sixes League, UAE for the 2026 season

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(Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates) – Following two successful seasons of the Golf Sixes Leagues in Abu Dhabi, the Emirates Golf Federation is delighted to announce the national roll out of the Golf Sixes League, UAE.  Two leagues in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, bringing together teams from the Emirates Golf Federation and golf clubs across the country, will compete over the coming months to earn a spot at The Abu Dhabi Challenge in April.

 

Golf Sixes League is a development initiative originally introduced and supported by The R&A and Emirates Golf Federation, which introduces young people to golf in a fun and inclusive environment, along with an added competitive element.  The format sees seven squads of 14 players, who rotate a team of six during each round, compete in a two-ball Texas scramble stroke play format across six holes. The best two scores of the three pairs will count toward the team score and the top 3 teams from each pool will progress to the final

There will be a total of 6 host venues for the preliminary stages of the competition. Trump International Dubai, Emirates Golf Club, The Montgomerie, Abu Dhabi City Golf Club, Yas Links Golf Club and Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club have all contributed to this initiative by waiving green fees for participants.

Cameron Van Rooyen, Director of Instruction, EGF shared

“This League is proving to be a significant stepping stone for our junior golfers to experience competition at a level that is fun, inclusive and less intimidating. . We truly believe that having this with in our EGF playing pathway will not only develop rising stars but feed the golfing community for the future”

Neal Graham, R&A Development Manager, Middle East, Central Asia and India commented;

“The R&A is delighted to support the Emirates Golf Federation with a national roll out across the United Arab Emirates. Golf Sixes League is a proven worldwide development initiative which encourages new golfers into the sport in a fun, competitive way.  It allows young people to bring their new found skills from the lesson tee onto the course in an encouraging and inclusive team environment.

RESULTS ROUND 1
Dubai Pool
1st – Claude Harmon III Academy (The Els Club) +4
2nd – Emirates Golf Club +7
3rd – Emaar +7

Abu Dhabi Pool
1st – Abu Dhabi City Golf Club + 7
2nd – Yas Links Golf Club +8
3rd – Emirates Golf Federation (Future Falcons) +11

The second rounds will be hosted at Emirates Golf Club and Yas Links Golf Club on the 28th of Feb and 1st March, respectively.

Ahmad Skaik Turns Professional, Marking a New Era for UAE Golf

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The Emirates Golf Federation is proud to announce that UAE National Team standout Ahmad Skaik has officially turned professional, marking the next chapter in one of the most successful amateur careers in Emirati golf history.

Skaik signs off the amateur ranks on the back of a superb performance at the 2025 Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship at Emirates Golf Club, where he finished 13th in a world-class field, having spent much of the week inside the top ten before closing at seven-under-par for the championship.

That result capped a decade of service to the UAE, during which Skaik established himself as the country’s leading amateur player and a standard-bearer for the national team. His highlights include:

  • Individual Gold Medal at the 2025 GCC Golf Championship in Saudi Arabia, where he posted rounds of 67-69-66-68 for a record-breaking 18-under-par total and the largest winning margin in the championship’s history.
  • Multiple appearances at the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship representing the UAE across Asia and the Pacific.
  • Representation of the UAE in major regional and international team events, including the GCC Golf Championships, World Amateur Team Championship (Eisenhower Trophy) and the Nomura Cup, as well as invitations to DP World Tour events on home soil and abroad.
  • A long-standing presence at the top of the World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR), with multiple victories and dozens of top-10 finishes worldwide.

Away from the scorecards, Skaik has become a role model for young Emirati golfers, known for his work ethic, humility and commitment to building a lasting legacy for UAE golf.

Ahmad will make his professional debut next week on the MENA Golf Tour in Portugal, the first of two early starts as he transitions into the paid ranks. Following these events, he will travel to Thailand to compete at Asian Tour Qualifying School, as he looks to secure full playing status in Asia and begin building his career on the international stage.

Commenting on his decision, Ahmad Skaik said: “I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved as a team over the last few years, but I feel ready for this next step. The support from my family, the Emirates Golf Federation and everyone in UAE golfing community has meant everything to me. My goal now is to represent the UAE at the highest level in professional golf.”

On behalf of the Emirates Golf Federation, General Abdulla Alhashmi: “Ahmad’s journey from junior golf to becoming our leading amateur and now a professional is a landmark moment for UAE golf. His performances, particularly his historic gold medal at the GCC Championship and his recent finish at the Asia-Pacific Amateur, have inspired a new generation of Emirati golfers. We are immensely proud of him and will continue to support him as he steps onto the professional stage.”

We wish Ahmad nothing but success in his professional career and look forward to supporting him on this exciting new chapter of his journey.

 

Emirates Golf Federation Launches “Friends of the Federation” Program to Strengthen Golfing Community Across the UAE

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Dubai, UAE – 13 November — The Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) is proud to announce the launch of its new “Friends of the Federation” program, an initiative designed to engage volunteers, golf lovers, and community members who are passionate about contributing to the growth and future of golf in the United Arab Emirates.

With the sport continuing to expand rapidly across the country, the EGF is calling on golf enthusiasts to become part of this exciting new network, supporting tournaments, events, and development programs that directly shape the UAE’s golfing ecosystem.

The “Friends of the Federation” program offers unique opportunities for individuals to deepen their involvement in the sport, gain valuable experience, and contribute to national and international golfing events. Members of the program will have the chance to:

  • Volunteer at EGF-sanctioned national and international tournaments
  • Join upcoming referee training courses and pursue pathways in officiating
  • Support EGF committees and community-based golf activities

This initiative reflects the Federation’s commitment to fostering an inclusive, engaged, and skilled volunteer community that plays a vital role in delivering high-quality events and developmental pathways.

“The growth of golf in the UAE is a collective effort, and volunteers are at the heart of every successful tournament and community activation,” said the General Abdulla Alhashmi, Emirates Golf Federation. “The Friends of the Federation program provides a platform for individuals to get involved, develop new skills, and become part of the journey as we continue to elevate the sport nationwide.”

The Emirates Golf Federation encourages anyone interested in joining this dynamic and growing community to get in touch. Those wishing to be involved are invited to contact: info@egfgolf.com.

Open to all skill levels and backgrounds, the program welcomes anyone with enthusiasm for golf and a willingness to contribute to the sport’s advancement in the UAE.

To register or learn more about the program, please reach out to the Emirates Golf Federation directly.

Emirates Golf Federation and Rocco Forte Hotels Celebrate Partnership at Dubai Creek

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Last night, the Emirates Golf Federation celebrated its partnership with Rocco Forte Hotels at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, marking the first, and certainly not the last, evening hosted alongside Sir Rocco Forte himself.

The event brought together key figures from the UAE golf community to celebrate excellence, hospitality, and the growing relationship between the Federation and one of the world’s most prestigious hotel groups. Guests were treated to fascinating insights from Sir Rocco Forte about the company’s collection of luxury properties, with particular focus on the Verdura Resort in Sicily, Rocco Forte’s flagship destination.

Located on the island’s picturesque southwest coast near the charming towns of Sciacca and Agrigento, Verdura Resort opened in 2009 and has since become synonymous with world-class golf, wellness, and authentic Sicilian hospitality. Set across 230 hectares of stunning Mediterranean landscape, the resort features two championship golf courses designed by Kyle Phillips, the same architect behind Yas Links Abu Dhabi, creating a fitting connection between the two organisations.

It also offers private villas, award-winning dining, a renowned spa, and access to some of Sicily’s most treasured cultural sites. With FlyDubai offering a direct six-hour flight from the UAE to Sicily, Verdura represents a truly luxurious, yet easily accessible, destination for summer getaways or golf retreats.

“I’m incredibly excited about the future relationship between the Emirates Golf Federation and Rocco Forte Hotels,” said Sir Rocco Forte. “To see golf flourish in this region and to be part of that journey is truly special. I’m already looking forward to returning to the UAE to experience one of the events that we are proudly sponsoring.”

It seemed only fitting that the inaugural event of the Rocco Forte Series will take place at the iconic Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, beginning with the Senior Category on Saturday, 29th November. This exciting new addition to the Emirates Golf Federation calendar will provide mid-amateur and senior golfers the chance to compete for an exclusive prize, a once-in-a-lifetime golf experience at Verdura Resort in Sicily.

The evening was further elevated by appearances from DP World Tour players Nicolas Colsaerts and Guido Migliozzi, and a special Q&A session hosted by David Jones, which offered guests a deeper look into Verdura’s vision and the future of the resort.

“This is year one of what we know will be an amazing partnership,” said Blair Harvey, Director of Sales for Rocco Forte Hotels. “We look forward to watching this relationship grow and to bringing a touch of the Middle East to Italy through the Rocco Forte Series.”

Golfers interested in competing in the Rocco Forte Series can register via the Emirates Golf Federation website, and those seeking more information about exclusive travel benefits to Verdura Resort are encouraged to connect through the EGF’s social media channels.

Rayan Ahmed Claims Back-to-Back Titles Ahead of Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship

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Dubai, UAE – 18 October 

Emirates Golf Federation National team player Rayan Ahmed continues to make headlines after a remarkable fortnight on home soil, capturing two international World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) titles in consecutive weeks.

The 18-year-old amateur first triumphed at the Faldo Series Middle East Championship, shooting rounds of 70, 67, and 73 to finish six under par and claim victory by four strokes. Without taking a break, Rayan went straight into the Tommy Fleetwood Academy Series presented by DP World, where he delivered another outstanding performance, winning again by four strokes with rounds of 69, 67, and a flawless bogey-free 66 in the final round for a 14-under-par total.

“Winning back-to-back tournaments has given me a lot of confidence heading into next week,” said Rayan. “The game feels really strong at the moment, and I’m excited to test myself against the best amateurs in the world.”

Rayan now turns his focus to the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship (AAC), which will be hosted at Emirates Golf Club’s Majlis Course from 24–27 October. The prestigious event, founded by The Masters Tournament, The R&A, and the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation, offers life-changing opportunities, with the champion earning invitations to the 2026 Masters Tournament and The Open Championship.

Having made the cut in his debut appearance at last year’s AAC in Japan, Rayan is determined to take the next step on one of amateur golf’s biggest stages. “This is without doubt the biggest tournament I’ve ever played in,” he added. “The Emirates Golf Club course conditions are absolutely perfect, and I can’t wait to compete in front of a home crowd.”

Spectators are encouraged to attend and support the region’s best amateurs, with complimentary public access throughout the tournament week.

The Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship will run from Thursday, 23 October to Sunday, 26 October at Emirates Golf Club, Dubai.

UAE CUP powered by Emirates NBD Returns to Al Ain for 2025

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Al Ain, United Arab Emirates – 8th October, 2025 – The Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) is proud to announce the return of the UAE CUP powered by Emirates NBD, set to take place from December 11th to 14th, 2025, at the Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club.

Following the success of its inaugural edition, the UAE CUP returns for its second year, promising an action-packed week of golf, friendship, and culture. The event has quickly become the UAE’s premier international amateur championship, attracting elite players and national federations from across the globe.

Last year’s championship featured an international winners list, with Coby Carruthers of Australia claiming the Men’s Title and Prim Prachnakorn of Thailand securing the Women’s Division, setting a new benchmark for the event’s global competitiveness and prestige.

The 2025 UAE CUP will feature an expanded format, including both Men’s and Women’s Individual Stroke Play Championships, with major international playing opportunities on offer:

  • The Men’s Champion will receive two Challenge Tour starts, providing a gateway to professional golf.
  • The Women’s Champion will earn a Ladies European Tour start, reflecting the UAE’s growing commitment to women’s golf.
  • The leading junior boy and girl will gain invitations to the Dubai Junior Desert Classic in January 2026.

In addition, a new team event will be introduced, seeing each participating country’s federation or association nominate one male and one female amateur to represent their nation. This inclusive format embodies the UAE Cup’s mission to unite cultures, showcase emerging talent, and celebrate the global spirit of the game.

“The UAE CUP represents the very best of what golf stands for, competition, friendship, and opportunity,” said General Abdulla Alhashmi, President of the Emirates Golf Federation. “Through this event, we continue to open international pathways for players while showcasing the UAE’s unique culture and hospitality to the world.”

Beyond competition, the UAE CUP offers a memorable cultural experience, giving international guests the chance to enjoy the UAE’s renowned hospitality and heritage in the heart of Al Ain.

The UAE CUP powered by Emirates NBD is also supported by Etihad Airways as the official airline partner and proudly supported by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council. Together with the Emirates Golf Federation, these partners continue to elevate the UAE’s position as one of the world’s most vibrant and forward-thinking golf destinations.

The Emirates Golf Federation looks forward to welcoming players, partners, and guests to what promises to be an unforgettable week of golf and cultural celebration in December 2025.

Emirates Golf Federation Launches exciting rewards for the 2025/26 Order of Merit

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New divisions, enhanced pathways, and world-class rewards announced
The Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) is proud to unveil the 2025/26 Order of Merit, a landmark season designed to provide golfers across the UAE with more opportunities than ever before.

This season introduces two exciting new divisions: Mid-Amateur and Senior, expanding competitive access and recognising golfers at every stage of their journey. Champions in these categories will enjoy an all-inclusive trip to the luxurious Rocco Forte Resort in Sicily, Italy, celebrating their success with a five-star golfing experience.

At the grassroots level, the EGF is proud to further strengthen the pathway into the game. The National Par-3 League will act as an accessible steppingstone for young individuals entering the golfing community. A new addition to the UAE calendar will see winners of certain categories in both the National Par-3 League and the Junior Order of Merit qualify for a single-day match play event, where juniors from Dubai will face off against juniors from across the other Emirates, creating an exciting and competitive environment to close the season.

At the elite level, the rewards are equally groundbreaking:

  • Men’s Champion – three starts on the HotelPlanner Tour, including two events on UAE soil.
  • Men’s Runner-Up – two HotelPlanner starts on home soil.
  • Ladies’ Champion – two starts on the Ladies European Tour.
  • Ladies’ Runner-Up – one start on the Ladies European Tour

Adding to the excitement, the Golf Sixes Final will be staged alongside the Challenge Tour’s season-ending event in March. This celebration will unite the game’s next generation with Order of Merit winners as they step onto the HotelPlanner Tour.

Furthermore, the Viya Golf Trophy , formerly known as the Dubai Golf Trophy, will once again showcase the pinnacle of professional and amateur golf in the UAE. With a proud history of over 25 years, this event will see its teams selected directly from the Men’s and Ladies’ Order of Merit, ensuring that the very best of UAE golf is represented on this iconic stage.

General Abdulla Alhashmi, President of the Emirates Golf Federation, said:
“We have a vision at the Emirates Golf Federation to provide a platform for every golfer of every age, no matter who you are. Our goal is to create accessible opportunities here in the UAE, making it the focal point for golf in the Middle East. This is not only good for the sport, but also for golf tourism, and it creates more opportunities for young aspiring athletes to stay in their home country to study while being exposed to these amazing opportunities.”

The 2025/26 Order of Merit showcases the full spectrum of golf in the UAE, from grassroots activations like Golf Sixes and the National Par-3 League, through to elite international opportunities. It is a pathway that proves there is no better place to play competitive golf, offering something for everyone, no matter their journey or skill set.

Record Turnout for the UAE National Monthly Match Season at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club

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Abu Dhabi, 22 September 2025 — The Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) proudly opened the new season on Saturday, 20th September, with the first UAE National Monthly Match at the spectacular Saadiyat Beach Golf Club. The event drew one of the largest fields in the competition’s history, highlighting the growing passion for golf across the Emirates.

Champions of the Season Opener

  • Senior Division – Mr. Akram Skaik, finishing strongly with 39 points
  • Mixed Division – Mr. Saif Thabit, with a fantastic total of 40 points
  • Junior Division – Master. Zayed Ali, with a standout performance with 50 points

This was the first time many UAE Nationals had the opportunity to compete at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club following its recent course redesign. Players were full of praise for the new layout, and although the weather remained a little warm, the atmosphere was one of excitement, camaraderie, and celebration of the game. The EGF extends its sincere thanks to Saadiyat Beach Golf Club and their dedicated team for their warm hospitality and to Pro Sports International for their continued support in providing the event prizes.

General Abdulla Al-Hashmi, President of the Emirates Golf Federation, commented:
“It is so inspiring to see so many Emiratis embracing the sport of golf. This is by far the largest number of players we’ve ever welcomed to a Monthly Match. I look forward to the UAE National Stroke Play Championship in October, which promises to be another milestone for our golfing community.”

 

Looking Ahead
The Emirates Golf Federation is delighted to confirm that the next Monthly Match will be hosted at Arabian Ranches Golf Club in Dubai on the 18th and 19th of October 2025. Players and supporters are encouraged to save the date and join what promises to be another fantastic celebration of competition, friendship, and the spirit of the game.

Rocco Forte Hotels forges new collaboration with Emirates Golf Federation

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September 2025: Rocco Forte Hotels has joined forces with the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) in a landmark partnership that strengthens the ties between the United Arab Emirates’ thriving golf community and one of Europe’s leading luxury hospitality brands.

As part of the agreement, the EGF’s prestigious amateur series has been rebranded as The Rocco Forte Series by the Emirates Golf Federation, creating exciting new opportunities for golfers in the region. Starting in October, Rocco Forte Hotels will serve as the official sponsor of the Mid-Am and Seniors and tournaments – key events on the EGF calendar.

Further strengthening the connections between UAE golf and the wider European golf landscape, the new agreement will give EGF members direct access and the opportunity to enjoy preferential rates at Rocco Forte Hotels’ portfolio of properties across Europe, including Verdura Resort in Sicily, one of the continent’s premier luxury golf destinations.

Founded as a non-profit organisation, the EGF plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of golf in the UAE, working closely with local clubs to grow participation, elevate standards and promote the game across all levels. The new partnership with Rocco Forte Hotels represents a significant step in its mission to deliver outstanding opportunities for its members and the wider golfing community.

Blair Harvey, Golf Sales and Marketing Manager at Verdura Resort, said: “We are thrilled to partner with the Emirates Golf Federation and bring Rocco Forte Hotels into the heart of UAE golf. Verdura Resort offers one of the very best golf and lifestyle experiences that there is anywhere in Europe, and this agreement will allow EGF members to enjoy the resort’s full array of facilities while also supporting their competitive calendar.”

General Abdullah Al Hashmi, Vice Chairman at the Emirates Golf Federation, added: “Partnering with Rocco Forte Hotels marks a significant milestone for the EGF and our members, and is a step forward in our commitment to grow the game and deliver exceptional value to our membership. By rebranding our amateur series under one of the travel industry’s most famous names, we are not only strengthening our ties to Europe but also providing our players with access to some of the world’s most prestigious courses and resorts.”

Located on Sicily’s breathtaking southern coastline, Verdura Resort is a jewel in the Rocco Forte Hotels portfolio. The resort is home to two 18-hole championship courses — the East Links and West Shore — designed by world-renowned architect Kyle Phillips, as well as a nine-hole executive course and Italy’s only European Tour-approved Performance Institute. In addition to its elite golf facilities, Verdura offers a luxury spa, exceptional dining, and 1.8km of private Mediterranean coastline.

The Rocco Forte Series by the Emirates Golf Federation will debut under its new name later this year, with the Mid-Am, Seniors and Super Seniors tournaments headlining a busy schedule designed to showcase amateur golf at its highest level.

Adrian Otaegui in Contention at the BMW PGA Championship

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Wentworth, Surrey, England – September 12, 2025: Adrian Otaegui finds himself well-placed heading into the weekend at the BMW PGA Championship, currently tied for 12th after 36 holes at Wentworth Club. Representing the United Arab Emirates, Otaegui has called Dubai home for the past 13 years and continues to be a strong ambassador for golf in the region.

Otaegui, 32, is one of the most consistent performers on the DP World Tour, having already captured five titles, including the 2022 Andalucía Masters and the 2020 Scottish Championship. Known for his precision and composure under pressure, he has built a reputation as a role model for aspiring golfers and a player capable of contending in the biggest events. His long-standing base in Dubai has kept him close to the UAE’s thriving golf community, where he is widely regarded as an inspiration for the next generation of players.

Now chasing his sixth career victory, Otaegui is determined to use his experience and form to close out the season on a high. With only a handful of DP World Tour events remaining before the schedule returns to the UAE, he is eager to put himself in contention and carry momentum into the home stretch.

General Abdullah Al Hashmi, Vice Chairman of the Emirates Golf Federation, commented: “It is exciting to see Adrian moving into some strong form at this stage of the season. With only a handful of events left on the DP World Tour before the return to the UAE, his performances add to the excitement and anticipation for golf fans across the Emirates.”

Otaegui’s progress will be closely followed over the weekend as he aims to cement his place among the contenders at Wentworth and continue building his legacy on the DP World Tour.