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HotelPlanner Tour tees up in the UAE for a spectacular April swing
Rising stars set to battle on two iconic courses, as Al Zorah makes its tour debut
- PUBLISHED: Thu 20 Mar 2025, 5:06 PM
The UAE’s golf scene is showing no signs of slowing down. Just as fans catch their breath after a whirlwind season of elite events, the HotelPlanner Tour is set to bring even more thrilling action to the region next month.
Two back-to-back tournaments will see some of the game’s brightest emerging talents descend on the UAE, with the Emirates Golf Federation co-promoting both events—giving local players a rare chance to compete alongside future stars of the sport.
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The UAE Challenge kicks things off from April 10-13, marking a historic moment as Al Zorah Golf & Yacht Club in Ajman makes its HotelPlanner Tour debut. Designed by Nicklaus Design, this stunning championship course is carved into a breathtaking mangrove landscape, offering a one-of-a-kind setting for the high-stakes competition.
A week later, the action moves to Abu Dhabi for the Abu Dhabi Challenge, staged at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club from April 17-20. Known for its demanding yet rewarding layout, Al Ain has built a reputation as a course that rewards precision and strategy - a true test for any aspiring pro.
Crucial Stepping Stone to the DP World Tour
The HotelPlanner Tour, formerly the Challenge Tour, has long been a breeding ground for future golf superstars. Major winners like Justin Rose, Matt Fitzpatrick, and Brooks Koepka honed their skills on this circuit before taking on the world’s best.
These UAE-based events offer the next generation a chance to follow in their footsteps, gaining vital ranking points and pushing for a coveted spot on the DP World Tour.
“We’re thrilled to return to the UAE, a region that continues to play a key role in the development of global golf,” said Jamie Hodges, HotelPlanner Tour Director. “With Al Zorah joining the schedule, we’re bringing world-class golf to even more fans and players in the region. These events are a fantastic opportunity for rising stars to test themselves on some of the UAE’s most spectacular courses.”
Golden Opportunity for UAE-Based Talent
With 30 tournament spots allocated to UAE-based players through the Emirates Golf Federation (EGF), these tournaments aren’t just about international talent—they’re also a massive opportunity for the country’s best golfers.
Through strategic partnerships, the EGF also ensures that local players get opportunities to compete in HotelPlanner Tour events worldwide, further strengthening their path to the top.
“Providing UAE golfers with the chance to play at this level is a core part of our mission,” said General Abdullah Alhashmi, Vice Chairman of the EGF. “Competing against elite international fields on home soil is an invaluable experience, and we’re proud to be a part of growing the game in the region.”
With world-class venues, a field of future stars, and high-stakes competition, these two tournaments promise to add another exciting chapter to what has already been a landmark year for golf in the UAE. As the region continues to cement its status as a global golfing powerhouse, fans can look forward to witnessing the next wave of champions in action—right in their backyard.