The Abu Dhabi Challenge returns to Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club from September 30 to October 3, bringing four days of HotelPlanner Tour action to one of the UAE’s most historic destinations.
Returning to Al Ain for a third successive year, the tournament will once again offer free entry for spectators throughout the week.
Staged in partnership with co-organiser and sanctioning body the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF) and supported by Abu Dhabi Sports Council, the event provides golf fans with the opportunity to watch some of the game’s rising stars while exploring the wider Al Ain Region.
Al Ain named Arab Tourism Capital 2026
This year’s Abu Dhabi Challenge arrives at a significant time for the region, with Al Ain named Arab Tourism Capital 2026.
Known as the Garden City of the Emirates, Al Ain is the UAE’s largest inland city, located approximately 160 kilometres east of Abu Dhabi and 120 kilometres south of Dubai.
The city’s history stretches back thousands of years and Al Ain is home to the UAE’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
At its heart is the spectacular Al Ain Oasis, covering almost 3,000 acres and containing more than 147,000 date palms. The oasis continues to be supported by the traditional falaj irrigation system that has supplied water to the area for generations.
Al Ain also holds an important place in the history of the UAE as the childhood home of the country’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
Ancient forts, souqs and heritage sites provide a glimpse into the region’s past, while the imposing Jebel Hafeet rises almost 1,300 metres above the desert and provides a dramatic backdrop to the city.
What to do in Al Ain during the Abu Dhabi Challenge
For spectators travelling to the Abu Dhabi Challenge, there is plenty to explore away from the golf course.
Visitors can discover Al Ain Oasis, Al Jahili Fort and Qasr Al Muwaiji, while families can visit Al Ain Zoo or experience the outdoor activities at Al Ain Adventure.
Jebel Hafeet is another major attraction, offering hiking, camping and spectacular views across the surrounding landscape.
With Al Ain around 90 minutes by car from both Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the tournament also provides an opportunity to turn a day at the golf into a weekend exploring the region.
A distinctive test for the HotelPlanner Tour
The tournament venue is an attraction in its own right.
The Championship Course at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club is a par 70 measuring 7,117 yards, with water coming into play on the majority of holes.
Several fairways run alongside Al Ain’s horse racing track, creating one of the more distinctive settings on the HotelPlanner Tour.
Its signature hole is the 678-yard par-five 10th, the longest par five in the Arabian Gulf.
Away from golf, the venue also offers equestrian, shooting, rugby and cricket facilities.
Mohammed Rashid Al Nasseri, General Manager at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club, said:
“We are extremely proud and excited to welcome the Abu Dhabi Challenge back to Al Ain. It is a prestigious international tournament and a fantastic experience for everyone involved at the club.
“The event plays an important role in the continued growth of golf across the UAE and the wider Middle East, while providing Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club with an invaluable opportunity to showcase the golf course, club facilities and hospitality on a global stage.
“We look forward to hosting another memorable and successful event.”
Strong field set for Abu Dhabi Challenge
There will also be plenty for spectators to follow inside the ropes.
Former European Ryder Cup player Chris Wood and current Road to Mallorca Number One Christofer Blomstrand are among those confirmed to compete.
They will be joined by UAE-based favourites including David Horsey and Adri Arnaus.
The Abu Dhabi Challenge represents the final opportunity for players to secure their places in the HotelPlanner Tour’s two season-ending events in China, adding further significance to the four days of competition.
Arnaus is looking forward to returning to familiar surroundings.
“I’m really looking forward to coming back home to play in Al Ain again. It’s a really good track in amazing condition and the facilities are great.
“It’s a cool place for the Tour to visit too, with a lot for spectators to do in the area, so it’s well worth making a day or a weekend of it.”
Abu Dhabi Challenge 2026: dates and venue
The Abu Dhabi Challenge takes place at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club from Wednesday, September 30 to Saturday, October 3, 2026.
Entry is free of charge throughout the tournament, giving golf fans the chance to watch HotelPlanner Tour action while discovering one of the UAE’s most historic and distinctive destinations.
