Abu Dhabi recently hosted back-to-back Challenge Tour events, with the 2024 Abu Dhabi Challenge being won by Dubai-based Garrick Porteous. These events have had a significant economic impact on the region, totaling $1.44 million, thanks to the support of Official Sponsors such as Arena, Al Laith Group, and Phoenix Capital. The sponsorship from organizations like the Emirates Golf Federation and Abu Dhabi Sports Council has been crucial in the success of these tournaments, which are part of the global 2024 Road to Mallorca schedule with a prize fund of over €8 million.
The Challenge Tour events in the UAE have generated 2,872 room nights and attracted 185 players, as well as 32 staff members and visiting support staff. This influx of people has contributed to economic expenditure in Abu Dhabi during the two-week festival of golf. Tom Phillips, Head of Middle East for the DP World Tour, highlighted the importance of showcasing Abu Dhabi and the UAE as a golfing destination and supporting economic development through these events.
Aref Al Awani, General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, emphasized the positive impact of the Challenge Tour events on the city, both in terms of exposure and economic growth. The tournaments have also provided opportunities for Emirati golfers and UAE residents to participate, with 60 spots allocated to the Emirates Golf Federation over the two-week period. Young talents like 17-year-old Oscar Craig, who made the cut at the UAE Challenge, have emerged as a result of these events.
General Abdullah Al Hashmi, Vice Chairman of the Emirates Golf Federation, praised the success of the UAE Challenge and Abu Dhabi Challenge, citing the exceptional hosting and the achievements of winners Garrick Porteous and Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen. The tournaments have not only showcased sporting talent but have also boosted the financial prospects of Abu Dhabi as a golfing destination. These events are part of a long history of golf in Abu Dhabi, with the prestigious Abu Dhabi Championship set to take place at Yas Links Abu Dhabi in November.
Overall, the Challenge Tour events in Abu Dhabi have not only provided a platform for emerging golf talents but have also significantly boosted the economic development of the region, showcasing Abu Dhabi as a premier golfing destination. The support from Official Sponsors, organizations like the Emirates Golf Federation, and the Abu Dhabi Sports Council has been instrumental in the success of these tournaments, which have become a key part of the global golfing calendar. With a focus on promoting both the sporting and economic benefits of these events, Abu Dhabi continues to establish itself as a standout destination for golf enthusiasts worldwide.
