Ahmad Skaik is hoping to ride the momentum of his breakthrough performance at last week’s UAE Challenge as he heads into the Abu Dhabi Challenge (April 17–20) – the second leg of the HotelPlanner Tour’s UAE double-header.
Making History for Emirati Golf
The 27-year-old made history at Al Zorah Golf & Yacht Club, becoming the first Emirati golfer to make the cut in a European Tour group event. He also claimed the award for lowest amateur after finishing in 69th place.
Skaik’s standout moment came with a dramatic flourish on Friday, closing his second round birdie-birdie-eagle for a five-under 67 – enough to secure his spot in the weekend rounds for the first time in a European Tour-sanctioned event.
Staying Positive Despite Setbacks
While the weekend rounds posed new challenges – including a cracked driver on day three and adjusting to a new club on Sunday – Skaik remained upbeat and focused on the positives as he prepares for this week’s event at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club.
“I’m taking lots of positives away from last week. The last two rounds aren’t going to take away anything from what I achieved,” said Skaik.
“I’ll be taking all of those positives into this week – hopefully do the same, or even better.”
EGF Partnership Key to Skaik’s Progress
Skaik’s participation in these events is made possible through the Emirates Golf Federation’s (EGF) strategic partnership with the European Tour group. The agreement provides 30 tournament invitations for UAE players across the UAE Challenge and Abu Dhabi Challenge, forming part of a long-term initiative to support the growth of golf in the region through 2032.
Through this collaboration – which includes exchange opportunities with other international federations – Skaik has competed in 12 HotelPlanner Tour events since 2023.
Gaining Global Tour Experience
The experience has proved invaluable, with Skaik teeing it up in elite fields across Europe, including events in Italy, Spain, France, and the Czech Republic. Competing against emerging DP World Tour stars on the official feeder circuit has helped the Emirati sharpen both his skills and mindset.
“I’ve played many of these HotelPlanner Tour events and I feel like I can now compete with them,” Skaik added.
“I don’t see any big differences between me and the players on Tour, so that just gives me confidence heading into this week’s event in Al Ain.”
With professional aspirations on the horizon, Skaik’s growing self-belief could see him make another big leap in 2025.
Teammates and Tour Stars in the Field
Skaik won’t be the only UAE hopeful chasing a weekend tee time. Fellow UAE National Team members – including his brother Mohammed, Sam Mullane, Jonathan Selvaraj, Neyl Cherrat, and Rayan Ahmed – will all look to follow in his footsteps.
Ahmed, in particular, will be aiming to build on his impressive 66 in the opening round of last year’s Abu Dhabi Challenge.
The field also includes a host of Tour talent: last week’s UAE Challenge champion Renato Paratore, two-time DP World Tour winner Eddie Pepperell, Dubai-based Adri Arnaus, and the UAE’s own Joshua Grenville-Wood.
Defending champion and Dubai resident Garrick Porteous returns to defend his title, while 16-year-old Ukrainian amateur Lev Grinberg – invited by the Emirates Golf Federation – will also be one to watch.
Grinberg made headlines in 2022 when he became the second-youngest player in DP World Tour history to make a cut, doing so aged just 14 years, six months at the Soudal Open.
Free Entry for Fans
The Abu Dhabi Challenge enjoys crucial support from the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, UAE-based Arena, Al Laith, and eGolf Megastore. Spectators are welcome to attend free of charge and enjoy world-class golf in a unique and vibrant setting.
