The 30th edition of the Dubai Duty Free UAE Nationals Cup, held at the Montgomerie Golf Club Dubai on Saturday, 3rd May, marked a significant milestone with a new, professional-inclusive format.

Nearly 70 Emirati golfers participated in the event, which saw a shift from the traditional Stableford to a Tour Scramble format, allowing 18 professionals from the EGF’s Emirates PGA to play alongside 51 UAE nationals. Scoring was low across the board, with exceptional performances from both the professionals and the amateur teams.

Ultimately, the team of Saeed Al Noboodah, Mahmood Skaik and Abdulla Al Gaz, alongside golf professional Stephen Wilson, were declared the overall winning team. They achieved a spectacular score of 58 under par, securing the title by a commanding 9 strokes.

Finishing in the runner-up position was the team comprising golf professional Phil Allen, Ahmed Alblooshi, Hamda Al Suwadidi and Abdual Rahman Ailaqeeti, with an impressive score of 49 under par. Securing third place was the team of Samir Wallani, Amer Al Zarooni, Yarub Obaidalla and Jalal Abbasi, who finished with a score of 41 under par.

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The prize presentation was made by Dubai Duty Free Managing Director Ramesh Cidambi, along with Sinead El Sibai, Senior Vice President – Marketing, and Salim Dahman, Senior Manager – Marketing, who were joined by General Abdullah Alhashmi, Vice Chairman of the Emirates Golf Federation. Each winner received trophies and Dubai Duty Free gift cards.

Commenting on the Dubai Duty Free UAE Nationals Cup, Ramesh Cidambi said: “The success of this milestone tournament would not have been possible without the enthusiastic participation of all the Emirati golfers and club professionals. We wanted to change the format for the 30th edition, and the excellent turnout indicates that the Pro-Am format works well. Thanks to every player who took part, thanks to the Emirates Golf Federation for their input and support, and thanks also to the Montgomerie Golf Club team who did a great job in hosting the event.”

Special on-course prizes were also awarded. Yarub Obaidalla won Nearest the Pin – Men (Hole 8), and Shamma Al Hosani won Nearest the Pin – Ladies (Hole 17). Saif Thabet claimed Longest Drive – Men (Hole 16), while Aliya Al Qubaisi won Longest Drive – Ladies (Hole 9).

In the Professional category, Matt Rice emerged as the winner with a score of 7 under par (65), followed by Samir Wallani, who finished as the runner-up with a score of 5 under par (67).

Main Image: Dubai Duty Free