Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship Ushers in New Era with November Move and Expanded Regional Impact
The Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship has solidified its reputation as one of the most prestigious fixtures on the DP World Tour, boasting an 18-year legacy that has drawn the world’s elite golfers and placed the UAE firmly on the global golfing map.
In a significant development, the tournament is set for a strategic shift from its traditional January slot to a new November date. As Tom Phillips, Director of the Middle East at DP World Tour, explained: “In close collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, we made the strategic decision to move the Championship from its traditional January date to a new position in November. This shift reflects a shared vision to further elevate the tournament’s impact and maximise its contribution to the growth of golf across the region.”
Phillips highlighted that recent changes in the global golf calendar presented a prime opening to reimagine the championship’s role. “By aligning it with the DP World Tour Championship, we created a season-ending fortnight of world-class golf in the UAE – a compelling narrative that enhances fan engagement, commercial value, and the region’s global profile in a busy sporting landscape,” he stated.
The move is more than a calendar adjustment. It reinforces the UAE’s status as a golfing powerhouse, positioning Abu Dhabi at the center of regional growth. With increased visibility and integration into a broader festival of golf, the November date is expected to boost both momentum and fan engagement.
A pivotal element in the championship’s evolution is the long-term partnership with the Emirates Golf Federation, extending a relationship going back to 1989. “This partnership builds on a relationship with the region that stretches back to 1989, and reflects a shared commitment to both the grassroots and elite tiers of the sport,” Phillips revealed.
This collaboration has already spawned impactful initiatives, including the allocation of 30 player slots across two HotelPlanner Tour events—one in Abu Dhabi and one in Ajman—aimed at nurturing emerging Emirati talent. International exchange of spots provides UAE players with valuable exposure to global tournaments.
The championship celebrated a major milestone this year when Ahmad Skaik, the nation’s top amateur, became the first UAE-born player to make the cut in a 72-hole professional event at the UAE Challenge at Al Zorah Golf & Yacht Club. Phillips called it “a landmark moment and a testament to the progress being made.”
With its revamped schedule and deepened commitment to local talent, the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship is not only keeping pace with global trends but is also steering the UAE towards an even brighter future in world golf.
Team V.GG-LNK
