UAE-based professional Joshua Grenville-Wood is aiming to turn home-course advantage into a maiden victory at this week’s UAE Challenge, staged at the stunning Al Zorah Golf & Yacht Club in Ajman from April 10–13.
The 27-year-old, who began representing the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) in 2023, has called the UAE home for the past six years. His familiarity with Al Zorah’s demanding coastal layout could prove pivotal as he takes on a strong international field at this key stop on the HotelPlanner Tour.
“It’s a new course for a lot of guys, but I’ve spent plenty of time here,” said Grenville-Wood, who celebrated his birthday on Wednesday. “Over the last few months, I’ve been playing here once or twice a week. It suits a long hitter, which I love—and when the wind picks up, it gets seriously tough, especially near the ocean. Some par 4s start feeling like par 5s!”
Home Support
Grenville-Wood is no stranger to contention. He finished runner-up at both the 2024 Delhi Challenge and last year’s inaugural Abu Dhabi Challenge, and will be eager to go one better in front of a home crowd.
He credits the Emirates Golf Federation’s continued support as a key factor in his development.
“The opportunities I’ve had from the UAE and the EGF—I can’t thank them enough,” he said. “They’ve helped me gain starts in several DP World Tour events, especially in the Middle East. Competing with those players has accelerated my learning curve.”
This week’s UAE Challenge is more than just another event on the international calendar. It’s part of a broader EGF initiative to elevate the game in the region by creating meaningful playing opportunities for UAE-based talent.
National Team Contenders
Joining Grenville-Wood in the field are National Team standouts Ahmad Skaik, Sam Mullane, Jonathan Selvaraj, and Rayan Ahmed—fresh off a historic victory at the 2025 GCC Golf Championship. The tournament also features Arab Golf Federation amateurs, UAE-based professionals, and international federation trades, underlining the region’s growing depth and diversity.
“Getting to play alongside seasoned pros on a top-quality course like Al Zorah is massive for young players,” said Grenville-Wood. “You learn so much from weeks like this. I’m incredibly proud to represent the UAE and the EGF. They’ve got a big vision for golf in this region, and I’m grateful to be part of it.”
The UAE Challenge is the first of two back-to-back HotelPlanner Tour events in the country, followed by the Abu Dhabi Challenge at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club from April 17–20. Both tournaments are key pillars of the EGF’s long-term partnership with the DP World Tour, designed to position the UAE as a powerhouse for elite golf while fostering homegrown talent.
