This year’s back-to-back Challenge Tour events in the UAE have generated a total economic impact of $1.44 million for Abu Dhabi. This success was made possible by the support of Official Sponsors including Arena, Al Laith Group, and Phoenix Capital.
The Emirates Golf Federation, Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club, and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club, in partnership with co-promoter, played a crucial role in organizing these highly successful Challenge Tour tournaments for the second year in a row.
As part of the global 2024 Road to Mallorca schedule, these competitions, with a prize fund of over €8 million for the second consecutive year, attracted 185 players and generated 2,872 room nights in the surrounding area.
The Abu Dhabi Challenge had 32 staff members present, while the UAE Challenge the following week had 26 staff members along with visiting support staff. This significant presence contributed to economic expenditure in the capital during the two-week festival of golf.
Tom Phillips, Head of Middle East for the DP World Tour, commented on the success of the Challenge Tour events in the UAE, stating that they continue to set high standards for similar events around the world and provide an opportunity to showcase Abu Dhabi and the UAE as a golfing destination.
In addition to supporting the economic development, the events also established a pathway for Emirati golfers and UAE residents. The partnership between the Emirates Golf Federation and the European Tour group allocated a total of 60 spots to the Federation over the two weeks.
General Secretary of Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Aref Al Awani, expressed his satisfaction with the growth and success of these events, highlighting their contribution to attracting attention to the city and boosting its status as a global sporting and economic hub. He also emphasized the monetary value that these events bring to the city's growth and eagerly awaits next year's edition.
The UAE Challenge and Abu Dhabi Challenge attracted top talent and provided an economic boost to Abu Dhabi. The UAE Challenge saw 17-year-old amateur Oscar Craig, winner of the Al Hamra Men’s Amateur Open, make the cut with the support of his stepfather and Ryder Cup star Tommy Fleetwood serving as his caddie.
General Abdullah Al Hashmi, Vice Chairman of the Emirates Golf Federation, praised both venues for hosting exceptional events and setting high standards for Challenge Tour tournaments. He highlighted the success of the deserving winners, Garrick Porteous and Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen, and the news of young talent Oscar Craig making the cut.
These two Challenge Tour events contribute to the rich history of golf in Abu Dhabi, with the upcoming prestigious Abu Dhabi Championship set to take place on November 7th – 10th, 2024 at Yas Links Abu Dhabi.
