The Abu Dhabi Aldar Championship at Yas Links, together with its companion Team Cup event, has reached a notable milestone: more than 10,000 young Emiratis have now been introduced to golf through the two tournaments' grassroots programmes. Organisers timed the announcement to coincide with the UAE's Year of Family.
The initiatives span several age groups. The Future Falcons Programme targets children aged four to 16, while a Schools Programme — delivered in partnership with M+C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment Middle East — brings golf into classrooms. A Careers in Golf Programme introduces teenagers aged 16 to 19 to potential paths into the industry, and a Golf for All zone, run with Viya Golf, gives the wider public a free taste of the sport.
"Reaching 10,000 young people will be a proud moment for everyone involved in both events, and there is no more fitting year to reach it than the Year of Family," said Maria Grandinetti-Milton, Director of Sustainability at the DP World Tour.
On the competitive side, 70 players are vying for spots in the DP World Tour Play-Offs, with the top 50 advancing to the DP World Tour Championship in Dubai. The field includes defending champion and reigning US PGA champion Aaron Rai, Rory McIlroy chasing an eighth Race to Dubai title, and Jon Rahm, the two-time major winner making his tournament debut. The Team Cup's next edition is scheduled for January 2027.