UAE’s Ahmad Skaik turns professional as Mena Tour launches new season
UAE golf star Ahmad Skaik is set to make his much-anticipated professional debut at the PGA Aroeira Challenge in Portugal, taking place from November 25–27, as the Mena Golf Tour officially launches its 2025–26 season. The relaunch signals a historic chapter for regional golf, offering a platform for emerging players alongside experienced international competitors, with $100,000 prize funds at each event and Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points up for grabs.
Skaik, widely regarded as the most successful amateur golfer in UAE history, has chosen this moment to step into the professional arena after more than a decade competing internationally and recently claiming gold at the 2025 GCC Golf Championship. Fresh momentum from a strong performance at the Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship—where he finished 13th among an elite global field—helped confirm his readiness to transition into the professional game.
Turning pro at the right moment
Speaking ahead of his debut, Skaik shared that his confidence soared after the Asia-Pacific event at Emirates Golf Club, where he remained inside the top ten for much of the tournament.
“I’ve been thinking about turning professional for a while. I always wanted to do it, but I waited for the Asia-Pacific. That performance gave me the answer that I’m ready,” he said.
“My game feels solid. I’ve had good results this season and now feels like the right time to take the next step.”
His move into the pro ranks aligns perfectly with the Mena Golf Tour’s return, which provides valuable competitive opportunities close to home across the Middle East, North Africa, and Europe. Skaik also confirmed he will be playing the Asian Tour Qualifying School final stage, where finishing inside the top 35 would secure his Asian Tour card.
“More tournaments around our region will help us compete and grow. I’m excited. I hope to secure a win or two before Q School,” he added.
Challenging debut field led by Chris Wood
The opening season event presents a formidable test, particularly with Chris Wood—former Ryder Cup player and three-time DP World Tour winner—headlining the field. Wood enters the week in excellent form after dominating last week’s Q-School at Troia, winning by six strokes after rounds of 66-72-72. His comeback effort and participation in the Mena Tour create a compelling storyline as he competes alongside rising prospects like Skaik.
Other strong contenders include Scotland’s Sebastian Sandin, England’s Will Marshall, and France’s Nicolas Calvet, who all tied for second at Q School to earn Category 3 Tour cards and full-season eligibility. Their impressive consistency in challenging conditions sets up a competitive race for early Order of Merit advantage.
Veteran presence adds further depth with France’s Sébastien Gros, a proven winner with two titles and a second-place season finish on the HotelPlanner Tour. Gros’ experience at the highest levels promises to intensify the level of competition.
Course conditions create added difficulty
This week’s venue, PGA Aroeira Golf Club, poses a contrasting test compared to Troia. Recent rainfall has softened the course, making fairways slower and increasing the importance of accurate tee shots and long-carry drives.
Skaik described the setup after his practice round:
“It’s a tight course and the conditions mean it’s playing longer. You have to be straight off the tee. I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
A natural progression for UAE golf’s leading figure
Skaik has long served as the face of Emirati golf, representing the UAE in multiple World Amateur Team Championships, the Nomura Cup, and receiving invitations to DP World Tour events. His ascension to professional status reflects years of building experience and performing under pressure.
Asked about handling expectations, he responded confidently:
“I’ve felt it my whole life, so it doesn’t add pressure. I just focus on each shot. Everything else is a bonus.”
A landmark season for the Mena Golf Tour
The PGA Aroeira Challenge marks the first of 12 events on a revitalized schedule. The second event, the Rolear Algarve Classic, follows immediately from December 2–4, before the Tour travels to Egypt for four tournaments early in 2026 and later moves to Morocco for a mid-season Q-Sprint on February 22–23, giving more players an opportunity to enter or upgrade status.
With guaranteed prize funds, fast 48-hour payouts, and OWGR points, the Mena Golf Tour provides a vital springboard for professionals aiming to progress to elite tours.
For Ahmad Skaik, the season opener marks the beginning of a new chapter. For Chris Wood, a chance to reassert his status. And for dozens of others, the opportunity to take a major step toward competing on the world’s biggest stages.
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