Seventeen talented golfers from six Middle East countries are set to compete in the 2025 Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship at Emirates Golf Club’s Majlis Course in Dubai from October 23 to 26. This event offers the winner a spot in the 2026 Masters Tournament and the 154th Open Championship, drawing top amateurs from across the region to showcase their skills on a world-class stage.
Event Overview and Stakes
The Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship, now in its 16th year, brings together 116 players from 42 organizations, as confirmed by recent announcements. Organized by the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation, The R&A, and the Masters Tournament, it aims to boost amateur golf in the region.
This year’s tournament at the iconic Majlis Course marks a historic moment for Middle East golf, with home advantage for UAE players. The champion earns invites to major events, while runners-up and top finishers get exemptions into qualifying series and other championships.
Beyond individual glory, the event highlights growing golf talent in the Middle East, where countries like the UAE and Oman have invested heavily in youth programs. Recent wins by regional amateurs in international opens add to the excitement.
Key Middle East Contenders
Jordan leads with four players: Mousa Shana’ah, Mohammad Alrawashdeh, Salem Alabdallat, and Hashem Shana’ah. These athletes bring experience from local circuits and aim to make a strong showing.
Lebanon sends Rachid Akl and Geoffrey Laklak, both known for their precision and competitive edge in Arab golf events.
Oman fields Azaan Al Rumhy and Ahmed Al Wahaibi, with Al Wahaibi fresh off a recent victory on home soil that boosted his world amateur ranking.
Qatar’s representatives are Saleh Ali Alkaabi and Ali Abdulla Al Shahrani, adding depth to the field with their consistent performances in regional qualifiers.
Saudi Arabia contributes Ali Alsakha and Khalid Saud Al Faisal, players who have trained extensively and competed in international amateur tours.
The UAE boasts five home players: Ahmad Skaik, Sam Mullane, Jonathan Selvaraj, Abdulla Kalbat, and Rayan Ahmed. Skaik, making his sixth appearance, stands out with past cuts in the championship.
UAE Stars in the Spotlight
Ahmad Skaik expressed thrill about competing on familiar turf. He recalled his standout performance in 2021 at Dubai Creek, where he became the second Emirati to make the cut.
Rayan Ahmed followed suit last year in Japan, earning praise from Augusta National’s chairman. This year, the group includes debutants Mullane and Selvaraj, eager to shine.
Kalbat, who debuted last year, joins them with hopes of building on his experience. The UAE team’s preparation includes intensive training at local clubs, focusing on the Majlis Course’s challenging layout.
Their participation underscores the Emirates Golf Federation’s efforts to develop talent, supported by figures like Vice Chairman General Abdullah Alhashmi.
Broader Regional Impact
The championship aligns with a surge in Middle East golf events, such as recent amateur opens in Jordan and Oman. Players like Qatar’s Daniil Sokolov, who won the Jordan Amateur Open, show the region’s rising stars, though not all are in this field.
This event could inspire more youth involvement, especially with golf’s inclusion in Olympic programs and growing facilities in countries like Saudi Arabia.
Hosting in Dubai positions the Middle East as a golf hub, following successful pro tours and investments in infrastructure.
- Jordan: 4 players, strongest contingent.
- UAE: 5 players, home advantage.
- Others: Lebanon, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia with 2 each.
Historical Context and Expectations
Since its start in 2009, the championship has produced major winners like Hideki Matsuyama. Middle East players have made strides, with UAE’s cuts marking key milestones.
Expectations run high for a breakthrough win, given the talent pool. Analysts predict tight competition, with weather and course conditions playing roles.
The Majlis Course, known for hosting DP World Tour events, tests accuracy and strategy, favoring players familiar with desert golf.
| Country | Number of Players | Notable Player |
|---|---|---|
| Jordan | 4 | Mousa Shana’ah |
| Lebanon | 2 | Rachid Akl |
| Oman | 2 | Ahmed Al Wahaibi |
| Qatar | 2 | Saleh Ali Alkaabi |
| Saudi Arabia | 2 | Ali Alsakha |
| UAE | 5 | Ahmad Skaik |
Looking Ahead
As the tournament approaches, fans watch for upsets and stellar rounds. It ties into global trends, like increased amateur participation post-pandemic.
This could lead to more Middle East representation in majors, boosting the sport’s profile.
Share your thoughts on who might win or your favorite player in the comments below, and spread the word to fellow golf enthusiasts.
