UAE golfers are set to make history as five talented players represent the country at the 16th Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship. This year, the championship returns to Dubai from October 23–26, 2025, at the iconic Majlis Course of Emirates Golf Club. The event provides an ideal platform for young Emirati golfers to showcase their talent on an international stage while playing on home soil.
A Record-Breaking Line-Up
The UAE team for the championship includes Ahmad Skaik, Rayan Ahmad, Abdulla Kalbat, Jonathan Selvaraj, and Sam Mullane. This is the largest representation of Emirati golfers in the history of the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship, surpassing the previous record of four players in 2021. The selection highlights the country’s growing presence in international amateur golf and reflects the increasing quality of young talent emerging from the UAE.
Ahmad Skaik: A Veteran’s Final Bow
Ahmad Skaik, widely recognized as the UAE’s top amateur golfer, will make his sixth and final appearance at the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship. He is preparing to transition into a professional career after the tournament. Reflecting on his journey, Skaik expressed that competing at the AAC has been crucial to his development and that representing his country at home feels like the perfect conclusion to his amateur career. His experience and consistency make him a key player to watch during the tournament.
Rising Stars: Rayan Ahmad and Abdulla Kalbat
Rayan Ahmad and Abdulla Kalbat, both just 18 years old, return to the AAC after gaining valuable experience at last year’s event in Japan. Their prior exposure to international competition gives them confidence and an understanding of the challenges they might face. Both players have shown remarkable growth over the past year and are considered promising stars of Emirati golf.
Debutants with Promising Futures
Jonathan Selvaraj and Sam Mullane will make their AAC debut this year. Both players have had impressive seasons, including notable performances in World Amateur Golf Ranking events and domestic tournaments. Their selection for the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship is a testament to their dedication and the consistent results they have delivered on the golf course.
Significance of the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship
The Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship was established in 2009 by the Asia-Pacific Golf Confederation, The R&A, and the Masters Tournament. The event aims to promote amateur golf across the Asia-Pacific region and provides an opportunity for emerging talents to gain international recognition. The winner of the championship earns an invitation to the following year’s Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club and an exemption into The Open Championship, making it a highly prestigious event for amateur golfers worldwide.
Emirates Golf Club: A Historic Venue
The Majlis Course at Emirates Golf Club, the Middle East’s first grass golf course, is hosting the championship for the second time. The club is known for its world-class facilities and has a rich history of hosting international events. Its challenging layout and pristine conditions offer the perfect backdrop for a tournament of this magnitude, making it an ideal venue for UAE golfers to perform at their best.
UAE Golf’s Growing Legacy
Golf in the UAE has steadily developed over the past decade, with the country producing more talented players who are making their mark internationally. Hosting the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship on home soil not only boosts the visibility of the sport but also inspires younger players to pursue golf seriously. The participation of a record five UAE golfers highlights the nation’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and elevating the standards of the game.
Looking Ahead
As the championship approaches, the UAE golfers remain focused on delivering strong performances. Each player brings unique skills and experiences that could make a difference during the competition. Beyond individual success, their presence at the tournament represents the growing ambition and capability of Emirati golf on the world stage.
The 2025 Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship is expected to be a memorable event for UAE golf. It showcases the nation’s emerging talents and underscores its dedication to promoting the sport. With a combination of experienced players and promising newcomers, the UAE team is well-positioned to leave a lasting impression on both fans and fellow competitors.
Do follow UAE Stories on Instagram
Read Next – Ready for 2040? How UAE Students Can Thrive in an AI-Driven Future
