Golf Sixes League Heats Up at Yas Links Abu Dhabi with Scorching Performances Ahead of Grand Final

(Abu Dhabi, UAE) – The third edition of the 2025 Golf Sixes League delivered thrilling action and red-hot scoring on Saturday, April 5th, as teams from across Abu Dhabi battled it out at the iconic Yas Links Abu Dhabi. In a day marked by competitive spirit and breakthrough moments, Yas Acres Golf Club claimed a dominant victory, continuing their incredible run of form this season.

Group Photo – Round 3 – April 5th 2025 – Yas Links

Abu Dhabi National Golf Club celebrated their highest-ever finish in the league, securing second place with a standout team performance. Saadiyat Beach Golf Club rounded out the podium in third, continuing their consistent presence near the top.

This result sees Yas Acres Golf Club extend their lead in the overall standings with 27 points as the league heads into the final. The race for second place is heating up with Abu Dhabi City Golf Club, Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club, and Abu Dhabi Golf Club all tied on 21 points. Just one point behind sits Abu Dhabi National, keeping the pressure on with 20 points.

“It was great to hear some of the kids yell, ‘That’s my first ever medal!’ after competing on Saturday,” said Cameron Van Rooyen, Head of National Development at the Emirates Golf Federation. “Moments like that highlight the spirit of the Golf Sixes League, it’s all about growing the game, having fun, and giving young players the opportunity to compete and feel proud. It definitely makes for an exciting final in a couple of weeks’ time.”

The season finale will take place at Yas Acres Golf & Country Club on Friday, April 19, and promises to deliver edge-of-your-seat action as teams fight for podium positions and league glory.

EMIRATES GOLF FEDERATION REINFORCES COMMITMENT TO DEVELOPING EMIRATI TALENT AT UAE CHALLENGE

Monday, April 7: As the players prepare to tee off in this week’s UAE Challenge, taking place at the stunning Al Zorah Golf & Yacht Club in Ajman from April 10–13, the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) has reaffirmed its commitment to developing homegrown talent and creating clear pathways for UAE-based players to compete at the highest levels of the sport.

UAE Men’s Team (R-L: EGF Secretary General Khalid Mubarak Al Shamsi, Rayan Ahmed, Sam Mullane, Jonathan Selvaraj and National Team Head Coach, Faycal Serghini)

 

Developing UAE-based golfers and providing them with opportunities to gain crucial experience on the global stage is a key focus for the EGF. The UAE Challenge, part of the HotelPlanner Tour, is a vital component of that mission—offering emerging Emirati and UAE-based golfers a rare chance to test themselves alongside some of the best rising stars in the game.

“This event is more than just a tournament—it’s a launchpad for local players to take their next step,” said General Abdullah Alhashmi, Vice Chairman of the Emirates Golf Federation. “By hosting world-class events like the UAE Challenge, we are not only promoting the UAE’s credentials as a leading golf destination but also directly supporting the future of Emirati golf.”

The UAE will be proudly represented by Ahmad Skaik, Sam Mullane, Jonathan Selvaraj, and Rayan Ahmed—a quartet that recently made history at the 2025 GCC Golf Championship. Skaik claimed individual gold with a stunning -18 under par total, while the team secured gold by a record 38 strokes, showcasing the remarkable progress of elite-level Emirati golf.

This week’s event also highlights the EGF’s dedication to providing pathways for the broader amateur golf community. Louis Klein of the Czech Republic (WAGR 137) secured his place in the field by winning the Al Zorah Amateur Open, while Sam Mullane added to his list of accomplishments by taking top spot in the inaugural Cedars Championship, also held at Al Zorah. As Mullane had already secured entry into the UAE Challenge, Mikhail Pinto and Dan Bryne, who finished tied for second, were awarded tournament exemptions—demonstrating the EGF’s commitment to rewarding top local performances.

In addition to UAE national team players, several amateur competitors from the Arab Golf Federation will tee it up this week, further strengthening regional representation and reflecting the growing collaboration across the Middle East golf ecosystem.

The field is also bolstered by international federation trades, which provide emerging players from around the globe—including National Team amateurs—access to elite-level competition. Players from the Arab Golf Federation and the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation (APGC) will also compete, enhancing the global calibre of the event.

Their participation is a direct reflection of the EGF’s broader development strategy, which includes grassroots programs, elite training support, and international exposure for promising talent—delivered in collaboration with the DP World Tour and The R&A.

“We are investing in the future of Emirati golf,” added Alhashmi. “Through events like the UAE Challenge at Al Zorah, we are giving our players the stage, the tools, and the belief to dream bigger—and to realise those dreams.”

The UAE Challenge is followed by the Abu Dhabi Challenge, set to take place at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club from April 17-20. Both events are supported by UAE-headquartered Arena, Al Laith and eGolf Megastore, while further support for the Abu Dhabi Challenge comes from Abu Dhabi Sports Council and the Department of Culture and Tourism.

These events, which will showcase some of the most talented emerging golfers from around the world, competing alongside the next generation of Emirati stars, stand as a testament to the EGF’s long-term vision to grow the game and create sustainable opportunities for UAE golfers to thrive on the international stage.

Fans interested in attending this week’s UAE Challenge or next week’s Abu Dhabi Challenge can do so free of charge without any tickets required for general admission.

Lebanese & Emirates Golf Federation Strengthen Brotherhood at 1st Cedars Championship

Mullane, Mateiu, & Sokolov Win their Repected Divisions

(Ajman, UAE) – On April 1-3, 2025, the Lebanese Golf Federation, in collaboration with the Emirates Golf Federation, hosted the inaugural Cedars Championship at Al Zorah Golf and Yacht Club in Ajman, United Arab Emirates. 66 amateur golfers took to the course competing for World Amature Golf Ranking (WAGR) points, Arab Golf Series points, and a spot in the upcoming HotelPlanner Tour event – UAE Challenge at Al Zorah.

Group Photo of Winners and Sponsors at the 1st Cedars Championship

The tournament is played over 54 holes, with an 18-hole Stableford format for the final round. Winning the Men’s Division following a six-hole playoff was UAE National Team player Sam Mullane. The exciting playoff was between Mullane and fellow EGF members Mikhail Pinto and Dan Bryne. There was a lot to play for as the winner received a Sponsors Invite to the upcoming HotelPlanner Tour event next week at Al Zorah Golf & Yacht Club. With Sam winning the Championship (who is already playing in next week’s HotelPlanner Tour event) and given the high level of competition and sportsmanship, the Emirates Golf Federation granted both Mikhail Pinto and Dan Bryne exemptions into next week’s event for their second-place finish.

Winners of the 1st Cedars Championship (L-R) Daniil Sokolov, Sam Mullane, Anca Mateiu

Winning the Ladies Division was Anca Mateiu, who fired impressive rounds of 65-68-73 for a championship total of 217, 10-under-par.

Winning the Junior Division was Daniil Sokolov, who shot one-under-par for the championship. Daniil was nine shots clear of the runner-up and was also granted a spot in next week’s HotelPlanner Tour event.

During the prize presentation that was attended by EGF Chairman, His Excellency Shaikh Fahim Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, and Vice Chairman, General Abdullah Alhashm, the President of the Lebanese Golf Federation, Karim Salaam, expressed the importance of the brotherhood and sportsmanship that was on display this week in the UAE.

(R-L) President of the Lebanese Golf Federation Karim Salaam – EGF Chairman His Excellency Shaikh Fahim Bin Sultan Al Qasimi – Vice Chairman General Abdullah Alhashmi

“It is important for countries to stand with other countries and although Lebanon is going through difficult times, we can use sport to be a vehicle of diplomacy. Thank you to the Emirates Golf Federation and to our brothers and sisters in the UAE for this opportunity. We look forward to continuing to use this championship to accomplish more than just the development of golf,” Mr. Salaam announced.

The Championship saw players from Egypt, Lebanon, Palestine, Qatar, UAE, as well as EGF members and UAE residents. This championship was the second event of the recently announced Arab Golf Series organized by the Arab Golf Federation.

Stay tuned to the EGF Social Media pages to follow the latest updates in UAE golf.

EGF Facebook: Emirates Golf Federation

EGF Twitter: @EGFuaegolf

EGF Instagram: emiratesgolffederation

EGF LinkedIn: Emirates Golf Federation (EGF)

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.

Ahmad Skaik in action during the 2024 UAE Challenge

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.

Yas Acres Wins the Second Round of the Golf Sixes League Abu Dhabi

(Abu Dhabi, UAE) – On March 24, 2025, the Abu Dhabi City Golf Club hosted the second round of the highly successful Golf Sixes League, Abu Dhabi. Seven teams from the Abu Dhabi and the Emirates Golf Federation competed. Coming out on top for the second round was the Yas Acres Golf & Country Club.

Golf Sixes League, Abu Dhabi at Abu Dhabi City Golf Club – March 2025

Golf Sixes League is a development initiative originally introduced and supported by The R&A but now managed by the 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 12 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.

After lots of fun and good sportsmanship, Yas Acres Golf & Country Club won round 2 nearly edging out Al Ain Equestrian Shooting and Golf Club by two points. After a count-back, Abu Dhabi City Golf Club claimed the third-place position.

The Golf Sixes will be back in action on April 5th at Yas Links Golf Club. To find out more information on the Golf Sixes League, Abu Dhabi contact the EGF at info@egfgolf.com and follow the Emirates Golf Federation Social Media pages for the latest news and updates.

Golf Sixes League, Abu Dhabi – Round 2 Winners – Yas Acres Golf & Country Club

Round 2 Results:

1st – Yas Acres Golf & Country Club                                       10pts

2nd  – Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club              8pts

3rd – Abu Dhabi City Golf Club                                              7pts

OMEGA DUBAI CREEK AMATEUR OPEN 2025

(Dubai, UAE) – The Omega Dubai Creek Amateur Open brought together golfers from all corners of the world for an exciting two-day event at the iconic Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club. Over the weekend, players of all levels registered to showcase their skills on one of the most renowned courses in the region. Set against the backdrop of Dubai’s stunning skyline, the tournament offered both a challenge and an opportunity for participants to compete on a world-class stage. With fierce competition and a vibrant atmosphere, the event was a true celebration of amateur golf, drawing players eager to make their mark on this prestigious tournament.

Omega Dubai Creek Amateur Open Winner

The Omega Dubai Creek Amateur Open concluded with impressive performances across both the Gross and Net divisions, with Emanuele Galeppini claiming the coveted Championship title. Emanuele delivered a steady and composed performance over the two days, carding rounds of 72 and 73 to finish with a total of +3. Emanuele’s consistent ball striking and ability to manage the challenging conditions at Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club were key to his success, securing him the win in a field stacked with talent.

Ananyaa Sood put up a strong fight throughout the weekend, finishing in second place with a score of +5, firing rounds of 75 and 72. The young golfer displayed exceptional skill and mental toughness, staying in contention all the way to the final hole. Mikhail Pinto, who showed great resilience and determination, claimed third place with a score of +7, with fantastic rounds of 75 and 74. Mikhail’s solid play kept him in the hunt, making for an exciting finish.

Oscar Craig secured a strong fourth-place finish with rounds of 75 and 76, finishing the tournament at +9. Just behind him, Alexander Rushika also posted a +9 total, earning fifth place with rounds of 73 and 78.

In the Net Division, Niall Mannion emerged as the Net Champion, finishing with a level-par score of E. Niall’s clean and efficient play across both rounds was a testament to his solid strategy and course management. Bogdan Capitan claimed the runner-up position in the Net category with a score of +2, while Shreyans Khemka also finished with a +2 total, securing third place. Both players demonstrated impressive consistency and composure under pressure, rounding out a competitive Net field.

The Omega Dubai Creek Amateur Open showcased exceptional golfing talent and sportsmanship, with each player delivering impressive performances. Known for its challenging layout and breathtaking views, the course once again served as the perfect stage for these standout displays.

After the prize giving, Assistant Golf Services Manager, Trisha Kumar said, “Once again a huge thank you to you all for making this event so special. Thanks also of course to our fabulous sponsor, Omega, for their continued support and dedication. Congratulations to all of our winners and we will see you all again next year!”

Callum Farr Wins Season Opener for Clutch Tour sanctioned by Emirates Golf Federation

(Al Ain, Abu Dhabi) – This past week the Al Ain Equestrian Shooting & Golf Club played host to the Clutch Tour’s first event of the 2025 season. Sanctioned by the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) this will be the first of three championships held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This week’s season-opening championship saw 154 inspiring professionals and amateur golfers fighting for a 50,000 GBpounds prize fund. Coming out on top was Callum Farr who fired a solid 12-under-par after the 54-hole championship.

Callum Farr Clutch Pro Tour Event 1, The UAE Championship, Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club, Al Ain, UAE,
Photo Credit: Jasper Wax 20/2025

At the start of 2025, the Clutch Tour and EGF strengthened their partnership as both parties signed an agreement that detailed the Tour hosting three international championships in the UAE. This week kicked off the Clutch Tour season in Al Ain while the tour will be making its way back to the UAE in October to crown a Clutch Tour champion.

The Clutch Tour is known to be the United Kindom’s and Europe’s leading development tour, offering unrivaled incentives and pathway opportunities. All Clutch Tour events in the UAE, offer Official World Ranking Points and a direct pathway to the HotelPalnner Tour and the DP World Tour. Callum Farr’s victory this week allowed him to participate in the HotelPalnner Tour event next month in Al Ain which is co-operated by the EGF and European Tour Group.

Ahmad Skaik Clutch Pro Tour Event 1, The UAE Championship, Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club, Al Ain, UAE,
Photo Credit: Jasper Wax 19/2025

 

As part of the agreement with the Clutch Tour, the Emirates Golf Federation has received 20 invitations that are being used to help support the UAE National Team, Emirates PGA, and UAE Golf Academies which is providing a platform for their elite amateur and professional golfers. In addition, the EGF is collaborating with regional and international federations to continue to build relations and partnerships throughout the world of golf.

General Abdullah Al Hashmi, Vice-Chairman of the Emirates Golf Federation.

“We at the Emirates Golf Federation believe the Clutch Tour plays a pivotal role in elevating both professional and amateur golf in the UAE and the wider region. While other parts of the world face seasonal challenges with weather and course availability, the UAE offers year-round, world-class conditions, making it the ideal destination for the Clutch Tour to both launch and conclude its season,” said General Abdullah Al Hashmi, Vice-Chairman of the Emirates Golf Federation.

“What sets the Clutch Tour apart is its commitment to inclusivity, with opportunities for female golfers at every event held in the UAE—something no other professional tour in the GCC currently offers. This aligns with our vision to establish the UAE as a leader in accessible, diverse, and progressive golf development. We look forward to seeing the Tour’s continued growth and impact in the region,” General Al Hashmi added.

The next event of the Clutch Tour starts on 25th March at La Vie in Oman, followed by another tournament in the Sultanate, the following week at Al Mouj Golf.

The final two events for the Tour will start at Al Zorah Golf Club on October 14th – 16th October and finish with the Tour Championship at Al Hamra Golf Club on October 21st – 23rd.

To find out more about the Clutch Tour visit the website at https://www.clutchprotour.co.uk/

JUMEIRAH GOLF ESTATES AMATEUR OPEN 2025

Friday 14th – Sunday 16th March 2025 – Fire and Earth

From Friday, 14th March – to Sunday, 16th March 2025, the 2025 Jumeirah Golf Estates Amateur Open took place, bringing together 136 talented golfers to compete across the Fire and Earth courses. This 54-hole stroke play event served as both a World Amateur Golf Ranking (WAGR) qualifier and an Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) Order-of-Merit event, with additional support from The R&A.

Cameron McWhinnie, Assistant Golf Services Manager at Jumeirah Golf Estates, reflected on the tournament: “The support from the players has been overwhelming, and we are incredibly grateful. This event would not have been as special as it was without their dedication throughout. As always, the Agronomy Team deserves recognition for their efforts—they delivered immaculate golf courses and fantastic playing surfaces for all competitors.”

Round 1 on Friday, 14th March, presented a tough challenge, with the Agronomy Team setting difficult pin positions on the slick greens of the Fire course. The standout performances of the day came from Amrit Singh (Emirates Golf Club) and Alistair Hess (The Els Club), both opening with impressive rounds of four-under-par (68), taking the early lead. Hess, in particular, put on a show, as noted by Adam Stastny, Golf Services Manager at Jumeirah Golf Estates:
“With seven birdies on the scorecard, the talented amateur looked unstoppable for most of the round. Unfortunately, two closing bogeys hurt his final score.”

Round 2 on Saturday, 15th March, began with a brief fog delay before action resumed on the Fire Course. Sam Mullane (Emirates Golf Federation) made an early surge, firing a three-under-par front nine that pushed him up the leaderboard. His brother, Jay Mullane, was close behind, posting a two-under-par front nine in pursuit. Meanwhile, Singh and Hess struggled, carding 73 and 79, respectively. Anca Mateiu also made a charge with an impressive three-under-par 69, securing third place at the end of the day.

The final round took place on Sunday, 16th March, on the Earth Course, home to the DP World Tour Championship—a fitting stage for the tournament’s conclusion. Viktor Joachim Kofod-Olsen made an early charge, opening with three birdies. However, he was unable to sustain the momentum, finishing the round at three-under-par, leaving him at three-under overall and securing second place. It was a commendable performance, as he climbed seven places in the final round.

However, no one could match the outstanding performance of Rami Samawi. The Swiss golfer started the day in sixth place at two-under-par but delivered a composed final round of 70, finishing with a total score of four-under-par (72-70-70, 212) to claim the championship. Samawi showcased his skill and determination with a clutch finish, sinking two long-range birdie putts on the 17th and 18th holes. Reflecting on his victory, he commented:
“I’m incredibly proud of how I and my playing partners performed today. I’m also grateful for the hard work of the Agronomy Team, who provided us with two stunning golf courses that played beautifully.”

In the Net Division, Deniz Sapmaz (Atasehir Golf Club) emerged victorious with a total score of six-under-par (net 70-71-69). Faye Alblooshi (Emirates Golf Federation) finished in second place, narrowly losing on countback against Sapmaz. In third place was Ayaan Dadabhoy, who posted net rounds of 72-70-73, finishing at net level par to secure his spot on the podium.

The weekend concluded on the Earth Terrace, where competitors celebrated over a buffet meal and refreshments following the prize presentation. Jumeirah Golf Estates eagerly anticipates the return of this prestigious event in 2026.

UAE National Team Celebrate Historic Victory

(Abu Dhabi, UAE) – On a special Ramadan evening, the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) celebrated the National Team champions after their historic achievement in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Golf Championships, which was recently hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

UAE National Team and EGF – Ramadan Iftar Celebration

The celebration took place at the farm of EGF Vice Chairman, General Abdullah Alhashimi in the capital, Abu Dhabi. The celebration was attended by members of the Federation’s Board of Directors, a number of parents, and a group of elite male and female players. The evening was filled with a festive atmosphere that reflected the spirit of family, team, and unity, as attendees gathered for a Ramadan Iftar to celebrate the unprecedented achievement.

General Alhashmi with Ahmad Skaik

The honoring came as a culmination of the exceptional performances of the national team stars led by champion Ahmed Skaik, who won the Gold Medal after recording the lowest score in the history of the GCC Golf Championships, with a total of 18-under-par (-18). His national team colleagues, Sam Mullane, Jonathan Selvaraj, and Rayan Ahmed, who contributed to the deserved Team Gold Medal.

Mohammed Thabet, who won the Bronze Medal in the Indiviual Youth Category, despite being the youngest player participating in the tournament.

During the evening General Alhshimi adressed his guests emphasizing that this historic achievement is the result of a clear vision and ambitious strategic plans developed by the Federation’s leadership, headed by His Excellency Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, which aim to develop the sport of golf in the country and raise the level of male and female players to keep pace with regional and international challenges.

General Alhashmi said: “What has been achieved is the result of teamwork and integration between the Federation’s management and the technical and administrative bodies, in addition to the great efforts made by the players who raised the UAE flag in this major Gulf event.”

National Team Players

Following the evening, His Excellency Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Emirates Golf Federation, expressed his pride and appreciation for this first-of-its-kind Gulf achievement, considering that what was achieved strengthens the Federation’s ambitions in implementing its long-term strategy to create a new generation of golfers capable of representing the country in regional and international forums. His Excellency stressed that this achievement represents a strong motivation to continue working to develop the base of male and female golfers, with a focus on the junior, youth, and girls’ teams, as they are the future of Emirati golf.

 

EGF & MOE Demonstrate Progress in Northern Emirates Golf Development

(Ras Al Khamiah, UAE) – The Emirates Golf Federation (EGF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Education (MOE), has once again partnered to offer students across the United Arab Emirates (UAE) the opportunity to learn golf within the Northern Emirates.

Damien Scott – Al Hamrah Golf Club PGA Teaching Professional

The EGF’s National Junior Development Program was launched at Al Hamrah Golf Club in conjunction with the RAK Championship 2025 held in Ras Al Khaimah, providing a perfect setting to introduce the initiative. Schools interested in participating were invited to attend and engage in various activities at the event. Students had the chance to learn the fundamentals of golf while also observing and meeting top international golfers. This event served as an inspiring and interactive introduction to both the sport and the program for students and schools alike.

The program began successfully at the start of Term 2 in Ras Al Khaimah, with Al Hamrah Golf Club implementing The R&A ‘Unleash Your Drive ‘six-week initiative, which is a key foundation of the EGF’s National Junior Develpment Program. This program, which is being delivered to four schools with both male and female students, has engaged over 100 students. Under the guidance of Al Hamrah PGA Teaching Professional Damien Scott and his team, weekly one-hour sessions have been conducted to teach students the core skills of golf through engaging, interactive games.

“We at the EGF are thrilled to have this partnership up and running once more. At the Federation, we have a goal to introduce golf to every young Emirati in the UAE. Having dedicated teachers and coaches helps make chasing this goal easier. I’d like to thank Amy Jane Gillingham from the Ministry of Education and Al Hamram Golf Club PGA Teaching Professional Damien Scott for all of their hard work and coordination, having them on board in Ras Al Khaimah allows this program to become a reality”, said Emirates Golf Federation Director of Instruction and UAE National Coach Cameron van Rooyen

EGF’s National Junior Development Program at Al Hamrah Golf Club

After just four weeks, students have demonstrated significant progress in their understanding, physical abilities, and, importantly, a genuine interest in the sport. For many of these students, golf is a new sport, and this initiative not only introduces them to physical skills but also educates them on the etiquette of the game, which can positively influence their behavior.

The long-term objective of the program is not only to provide students with the opportunity to learn a new sport but also to establish a player development pathway for those who exhibit strong interest and talent. The EGF and Ministry of Education plan to expand the program across multiple golf clubs in the Northern Emirates by the end of the 2024-25 academic year.

To find out more about the National Junior Development Program or how to get involved, please contact the Emirates Golf Federation at info@egfgolf.com.