Professional golf in the Middle East is facing a pause, as a wave of schedule changes reshapes the region’s 2026 calendar.
In a significant move, the HotelPlanner Tour, in consultation with local authorities, has rescheduled its highly anticipated back-to-back UAE events originally set for next month. The RAKBANK UAE Challenge at Al Zorah Golf & Yacht Club will now take place from September 24–27, followed by the Abu Dhabi Challenge at Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club from October 1–4.
The revised dates place the UAE swing later in the season, immediately after the Open de Portugal and ahead of consecutive events in China, ensuring the tournaments remain part of a packed international schedule. Despite the disruption, the Road to Mallorca campaign still features 29 events, underlining the Tour’s commitment to maintaining playing opportunities while prioritising safety.
Elsewhere, the ripple effects are being felt across the wider regional circuit. On the MENA Golf Tour, scheduled events in Qatar and the UAE, at Doha Golf Club and Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club, have been cancelled, with further updates expected in due course.
The Clutch Tour has also confirmed it will not stage events in the UAE in April 2026, adding to a growing list of changes impacting professional golf in the region.
These decisions reflect ongoing challenges affecting travel and logistics, with tours taking a cautious approach as the situation continues to evolve.
However, there is optimism that the disruption will be temporary. All stakeholders are targeting a strong return later in the year, with the UAE and wider region expected to once again play a central role in the global golf calendar.
For further information, visit:
www.HotelPlannertour.com
www.MenaGolfTour.com
www.Clutchprotour.co.uk
www.egfgolf.ae
Source: Khaleej Times