The Abu Dhabi Challenge returns to Al Ain from September 30 to October 3, bringing another high-profile international sporting event to the UAE.
The HotelPlanner Tour will return to the UAE later this month as Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club hosts the Abu Dhabi Challenge for a third successive year.
At an important time for the wider region, the return of international sporting events also provides an opportunity to showcase the reality of life in the UAE – a country that remains open, welcoming and firmly established as one of the world’s leading destinations for sport and tourism.
Strong field heading to Al Ain
Former European Ryder Cup player Chris Wood and current Road to Mallorca Number One Christofer Blomstrand are among those confirmed, alongside UAE National Team players and Dubai residents David Horsey and Adri Arnaus.
There is plenty at stake. The Abu Dhabi Challenge is the final opportunity for players to qualify for the HotelPlanner Tour’s two season-ending Final Swing events in China, with the top 68 on the Road to Mallorca Rankings progressing after Al Ain.
Important opportunity for UAE golf
Staged in partnership with the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) and supported by Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the tournament also provides 30 places for the EGF.
Those invitations give UAE National Team members, locally based professionals and emerging regional players the chance to compete against an international field.
Previous champions Renato Paratore and Ricardo Gouveia both went on to secure promotion to the DP World Tour after winning in the UAE.
Showcasing the UAE to the world
The UAE has spent more than two decades building a reputation as a major destination for international golf.
Bringing events such as the Abu Dhabi Challenge back to the country remains important, not only for the development of golf but also for demonstrating to international players, visitors and audiences that life in the UAE continues as normal.
Al Ain provides an ideal backdrop. Named Arab Capital of Tourism 2026, the region combines golf with cultural heritage, green landscapes and outdoor attractions.
The Abu Dhabi Challenge therefore represents more than four days of tournament golf. It is another opportunity for the UAE to welcome international sport and showcase the country as a safe, vibrant and welcoming destination.
The Abu Dhabi Challenge takes place at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club from September 30 to October 3. Entry is free for spectators across all four days.
