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Pro golf's return to the Middle East off to treacherous start

The return of professional golf to the Middle East has hit a snag as recent geopolitical tensions cast a shadow over the season. The Saudi International, a key event on the calendar, has been postponed from its scheduled November 18-21 dates due to unresolved logistical and security challenges, following an attack on Riyadh’s international airport last week.

Meanwhile, the DP World Tour remains committed to hosting its season finale in Dubai and Abu Dhabi as planned, despite growing concerns among players about travel risks. The tour’s CEO, Guy Kinnings, confirmed that preparations are underway at venues like Yas Links and Jumeirah Golf Estates, though the situation remains fluid.

Earlier this year, the conflict disrupted travel for LIV Golf players, including Tommy Fleetwood, who was stranded in Dubai for over a month without access to flights. The ripple effects of the war have also extended to LIV Golf’s financial backing, with Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) cutting ties with the league, leading to recent legal filings seeking to release Jon Rahm from his contracts.

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