Ahmad Skaik heads the Emirati challenge at the Abu Dhabi Challenge, which starts at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club on Wednesday. In total, 144 players from 25 countries will contest the HotelPlanner Tour event.
The tournament returns to the Al Ain Region for a third straight year. It is co-organised by the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) and supported by Abu Dhabi Sports Council. Entry is free for spectators.
Brother on the bag
In 2025, Skaik became the first Emirati to make the cut in a European Tour group event. This week is his first HotelPlanner Tour start of the season. What’s more, his older brother Fadi will caddie for him for the first time.
“I want to do much better than just making the cut,” said Skaik. “It’s a long course and the greens are pretty firm, so driving it well off the tee is one of the main keys here.”
He added: “Hopefully Fadi will be my good luck charm. He’s my older brother, so we’ll have fun out there together.”
Skaik and Ahmed Al Musharrekh take up the EGF’s places. The federation has also invited Garrick Porteous, David Gray, Jackson Bell, Damien Scott and amateur Jay Mullane.
Abu Dhabi Challenge crucial for rankings
Meanwhile, several players have plenty at stake. Ireland’s Liam Nolan is 43rd on the Road to Mallorca Rankings, just inside the top 45 who reach the Grand Final.
“I always love coming here,” said Nolan. “It’s great preparation for the end of the season in China. It’s an amazing course and it’s in great condition again.”
Similarly, England’s Bradley Bawden sits 70th, the last spot inside the cut-off for the Final Swing. He finished seventh here in 2024 on 19 under par.
“If you’re in the fairway you can attack some of the pins,” said Bawden. “It would be great to extend my season.”
Early start
Notably, the first round begins on Wednesday rather than Thursday. As a result, players who qualify for next week’s Hainan Open will have an extra day to travel.
Momentum for the UAE
Freddie Schmeisser, Managing Director, Tournament & Operations Middle East, DP World Tour, welcomed the event’s return.
“It’s fantastic to see the Abu Dhabi Challenge come together, and it creates real momentum for the UAE as it continues to establish itself as one of the world’s great destinations for international sport,” he said.
“Having players from around the world here in Al Ain is a reflection of the confidence the global sporting community has in the country, built over many years of hosting world-class events to the highest standards.
“Golf has been a big part of that story, and working with the Emirates Golf Federa
