The Abu Dhabi Challenge will return to the Al Ain Region for a third successive year, with the Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting and Golf Club hosting the HotelPlanner Tour from Wednesday, September 30 to Saturday, October 3. The event serves as the final opportunity for competitors to secure their place in the Tour’s two season-ending Final Swing events in China, with only the leading 68 players on the Road to Mallorca Rankings advancing.
Star-Studded Field and Competition Stakes
A strong field is already forming, featuring former European Ryder Cup star Chris Wood and current Road to Mallorca Number One Christofer Blomstrand. They will be joined by a host of UAE national team players and Dubai residents, including David Horsey and Adri Arnaus. Staged in partnership with the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) and supported by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the tournament has previously acted as a springboard for players like Renato Paratore and Ricardo Gouveia to secure promotion to the DP World Tour.
Official Statements and Partnership
Jamie Hodges, HotelPlanner Tour Director, said: “We are delighted to confirm that the Abu Dhabi Challenge will take place in Al Ain from September 30 to October 3 and we are very much looking forward to returning to the UAE.” Hodges added that the club has proven to be an excellent host and that the tournament remains an important destination for professional golf, offering emerging talent a chance to compete on an international stage.
- As part of the partnership, 30 places in the field are allocated to the EGF, giving UAE-based players the chance to test themselves against an elite international line-up.
- General Abdullah Al Hashmi, President of the Emirates Golf Federation, stated: “The Abu Dhabi Challenge is an important event for golf in the UAE and we are delighted to welcome the HotelPlanner Tour back to Al Ain for a third successive year.”
- Al Hashmi noted that the 30 available places provide an invaluable opportunity for local players to gain experience at a high level, noting that agreements with other federations further expand overseas opportunities for UAE athletes.
- Aref Hamad Al Awani, Secretary General of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, remarked: “The Abu Dhabi Challenge reflects our commitment to hosting world-class sporting events and further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global sports destination.”
Destination Experience and Spectator Information
Known for its green landscapes, cultural heritage and outdoor attractions, the Al Ain Region – recently named Arab Capital of Tourism 2026 – offers visitors plenty to experience beyond the golf course. The venue is prepared to welcome fans for the duration of the event, which promises to highlight the unique regional characteristics of Al Ain alongside the competitive action on the Championship Course.
Entry to the Abu Dhabi Challenge is free of charge, with spectators welcome at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club across all four days from Wednesday, September 30 to Saturday, October 3. Fans are encouraged to attend and witness the final push for rankings points as the season approaches its critical conclusion.
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